Ear mites are a common external parasite, most known to bother our cats. They lead to itching and scratching and, if left untreated, other health issues down the road. Here, our Hoquiam vets explain the symptoms, treatments and causes of the highly contagious ear mites in cats.
Ear Mites
Ear mites (also known as otodectes cynotis mites) are part of the arachnid class of animals. This extremely contagious external parasite makes its home on the surface of the ear canal, and sometimes on the skin's surface.
Ear mites are tiny, but you may be able to notice them as quickly moving white spots if you have good eyesight. For reference, pictures of ear mites in cats can be found using your favorite search engine.
These parasites cause significant irritation in our feline friends and, while ear mites are quite easy to treat, they can lead to severe skin and ear infections if they aren't caught early. When we see cats with ear infections, ear mites are often the underlying cause. Ear mites very rarely infect humans and are generally not considered a risk to the health of people.
What causes ear mites in cats?
You may read about ear mites and wonder how these parasites make their way into your cat's ears to begin with.
Due to being highly contagious, ear mites can spread easily from one infected animal to another. While they are most common in cats, ear mites can also be found in dogs and other wild animals.
If your cat spends time in boarding environments or outdoors, all it takes is for the cat to get too close to an infected animal or touch a contaminated surface and boom, the cat has ear mites.
This can even happen at the grooming salon if the tools or bedding has not been properly sanitized after coming in contact with an infected animal.
Shelter cats also commonly contract ear mites, so be sure to check your newly adopted cat for ear mites and schedule a routine exam with your vet as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Ear Mites
The most common signs of ear mites in cats include:
- Head shaking
- Scratching at ears
- Inflammation
- Hair or loss or irritation due to excessive scratching around the ears
- Dark crusty or waxy discharge from the ear that looks like coffee grounds
- Pus
How to Treat Ear Mites in Cats
Many pet owners who have dealt with ear mites have wondered about how to get rid of ear mites in cats. Thankfully, treatment is relatively straightforward.
If your cat is diagnosed with ear mites, the treatment will likely be an antiparasitic medication in either a topical or oral form. Your veterinarian will also likely clear your cat's ears out of the characteristic wax and discharge associated with these parasites and prescribe a course of antibiotics depending on how severe your cat's specific case is.
Your vet will also assess if there are any secondary infections present from the infestation and treat them as required. Your vet will probably suggest you return to the office in a week or two to ensure the mites are gone and that further treatment is not necessary.
Due to the contagious nature of ear mites, your vet will probably also prescribe medication for any other household pets to ensure the infestation doesn't continue.
We do not advise using home remedies for ear mites in cats. While some methods are capable of killing mites, many at-home treatments don't kill the eggs of these parasites. So, while it appears that the mites are gone. The infestation will begin again when the eggs hatch.
How to Prevent Ear Mites in Cats
Arranging frequent checkups and ear cleanings for your cat with your veterinarian will be a sure way of preventing more serious infestations of ear mites on your cat. Likewise, make sure that you clean your cat's kennel, bedding and your home to catch any stray mites. Your vet will also be happy to recommend parasite prevention products for your feline companion.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding asthma or other allergy symptoms.