What are ear mites?  Ear mites are a common spider like external parasite which causes significant discomfort to the cat. Although the name would suggest otherwise, ear mites can live on any part of the body although they generally live in the ears of cats. They are the most common cause of otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear canal) in cats. Ear mites are most often seen in kittens, but they can affect cats of any age. Ear mites feed on epidermal debris & ear wax. They burrow into the ear, causing inflammation which the body responds to by producing more wax. While there are several types of mites which may infect cats, Otodectes Cynotis is the mite most commonly seen in cats. What are the symptoms of ear mite infestation in cats?Not all cats will display symptoms of ear mites but often they will scratch at their ears & or shake their heads.
Other symptoms may include;
- Reddish/brown discharge in the ear,
- Bleeding from the ear
- Coffee-grounds like appearance in the ear
- Scratch marks
- Odour.
There may be damage to the ear if the infection has been present for a length of time. Damage to the ear could include a thickening of the skin or infection which is caused by the cat damaging the skin by scratching, and bacteria entering these wounds. How do cats become infected with ear mites?Ear mites are extremely contagious & are passed from cat to cat, or dog to cat. How are ear mites diagnosed?Often a veterinarian can diagnose ear mites by direct examination of the cat's ears with a magnifying glass. Your veterinarian may also diagnose ear mites by microscopic examination of material removed from your cat's ear. What are the treatments for ear mites?Treatment depends on how severe the problem is. Removal of the exudates from the ear by instilling a few drops of mineral oil & gently massaging the base of the ear. This will loosen the exudate, which will make it easy to remove. Your veterinarian will be able to prescribe a commercial insecticide to kill the mites. Revolution which is a flea/worming treatment can also be used to treat ear mites in cats. Can I catch ear mites from my cat?No, thankfully humans can't catch mites from cats.
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