Did you know that one of the most common causes of ear infections in cats is Otodectes cynotis, more commonly known as ear mites?
These microscopic parasites survive in a cat’s ear canal by feeding on the oils and wax present. The good news is that ear mites are treatable and manageable.
To get started, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ear mites, from how they’re caused to how they are prevented.
What Causes Ear Mites in Cats?
Ear mites can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Direct Contact. Ear mites are contagious, and cats can easily pick them up by making direct contact with other infected animals. This often happens in places where many animals are kept together, such as shelters and boarding facilities.
Contaminated Spaces. Cats can also contract ear mites through their surroundings, including bedding, toys, and grooming tools. They can survive for a limited time without a host. Kittens are at a much higher risk.
Are Cats Prone to Ear Mites?
Young kittens are the most vulnerable to an infection from this parasite, mainly due to their underdeveloped immune systems. Additionally, cats that frequent boarding facilities and unsanitized grooming salons are at a greater risk.
What Are the Symptoms of Ear Mites in Cats?
These parasites are tiny, but the signs of an ear mite infestation are hard to miss. Once your cat gets affected, here are the signs you’ll notice:Persistent Scratching. Your cat can be seen constantly scratching its ears by using its paws or the surrounding furniture. Persistent scratching can only make things worse and lead to wounds, scabs, and secondary infections.
Hair Loss Around the Ears. Constant scratching and rubbing of the ears can lead to hair loss around the affected area. You may notice bald patches or thinning fur.
Frequent Head Shaking. Frequent head shaking is another common symptom of ear mites in cats. Your pet may move its head vigorously or tilt it to one side as if trying to get rid of something irritating inside their ear.
Dark, Crumbly Discharge. Dark, crumbly discharge in a cat’s ears that looks like coffee grounds is another sign. This discharge is a mixture of earwax, blood, and debris left by the mites.
Redness and Swelling. As the mites cause irritation, the ears will likely become red and swollen. The inflammation can become quite noticeable, and you may see your cat’s ears appear reddish or puffy.
Sensitivity and Pain. If your cat pulls away or becomes aggressive when you touch their ears, it might be a sign.
Behavioral Changes. A change in your cat’s behavior can mean that something is wrong and causing stress. The reasons can vary, but if other related symptoms are present, then it could be a clear sign of an ear mite infestation.
Severe Symptoms. If left untreated, cats can experience severe ear infections, loss of hearing, ruptured eardrums, and balance issues.
How Do Vets Diagnose Ear Mites in Cats?
Our vets will start with a physical examination of your cat’s ears. We’ll discuss the symptoms present and your cat’s living conditions at home.
Using an otoscope, we’ll check deep in your cat’s ear canal for any mites. Any signs of redness, discharge, or skin irritation will also be observed. In some cases, we may use a cotton swab to remove some debris from the ear.
This sample will be examined under a microscope to check for ear mites and their eggs. Additionally, this method also helps us identify any presence of bacteria or fungi that might have come as a secondary infection.
Ear Mite Treatment for Cats
Treatment options are straightforward for ear mite infestations.
Medication
Topical Treatments. The most common treatment involves applying medication directly to the affected ear. These treatments are usually in the form of drops or ointments that target the mites directly and kill them on contact.
Oral or Injectable Medications. In some cases, we may recommend oral or injectable medications. These treatments are used for severe ear mite infestations in cats that have spread beyond the ear canal.
Secondary Infection Treatments. Ear mites often cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections in the ear. If your cat’s ear shows signs of an ear infection, we may prescribe additional treatments like antibiotics or antifungal medications.
Cats can typically recover from ear mites in two to three weeks.
Ear Cleaning
Home remedies for ear mites in cats are generally not recommended. Some cats may have inflamed or damaged ear canals that require special handling or medicated products.
If you want to clean your cat’s ears, then you’ll have to ask our vets for the proper way to do it, as well as the right products. Here’s a general guideline:
Keep Your Cat Stable
Wrap your cat in a burrito style, leaving just the head exposed. This prevents any accidental scratching or sudden jumps.
Apply the Cleaner
Hold your cat’s ears gently and squeeze a few drops of cleaner into the ear canal. Follow the vet’s instructions for this part.
Massage the Ears
Gently massage the base of your cat’s ear for about 20 seconds. This helps break up the wax and debris.
Wipe Away the Debris
Use a cotton ball and wipe away the loosened debris. Never wipe deep into the ear as this can cause injury.
How to Prevent Ear Mites in Cats?
The best way to deal with ear mites is to prevent them from appearing in the first place. Here are a few tips:
Schedule Routine Checkups. Routine checkups help identify any ear problems early, before they worsen. We’ll also teach you how to clean your cat’s ears properly without hurting its ears, or you can have them professionally cleaned at the clinic.
Clean Ears Regularly. Regular ear cleaning is one of the easiest ways to prevent ear mites in cats. Use a gentle ear-cleaning solution that’s been prescribed by our vets. This should remove wax buildup and debris from your cat’s ears.
Maintain a Clean Home. Ear mites can live in your home’s environment, so keeping your living space clean is essential. Regularly wash and sanitize your cat’s bedding and blankets. Vacuum and wipe down areas where your cat spends a lot of time.
Limit Exposure to High-Risk Animals. Limiting your cat’s exposure to other animals, especially those that spend time outdoors, can reduce the risk of ear mites. If you adopt new pets into your home, have them checked first before introducing them to your cat.
Give Preventive Medications. In some cases, we may recommend preventive treatments, such as flea and tick medications that also target ear mites.
“Healthy ears mean a happier cat, because comfort starts when the itching ends.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
Ear mites in cats are a common problem, but with the right knowledge and care, these parasites can be managed easily and quickly. Remember that our cats rely on us for comfort and care, so let’s do everything to keep them happy and healthy.
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