Ear mites are a highly contagious external parasite that can affect both cats and dogs potentially causing skin infections if not treated quickly. Here, our Rochester vets share the causes and symptoms of ear mites in cats as well as how they can be treated and prevented.
What You Need to Know About Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites (also known as otodectes cynotis mites) are commonly found in cats and 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. They have eight legs and a smaller set of legs. Pictures of ear mites in cats can be found using your search engine of choice.
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 know that ear mites are a type of external parasite that lives in the structure of your pet's ears and can cause uncomfortable symptoms but do you know how are they transmitted between animals?
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 and gets too close to another animal or touches a contaminated surface such as a grooming tool or bedding, ear mites can easily be transmitted.
If you have recently adopted a new cat you should have them checked for ear mites as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Ear Mites
Some of the most commonly seen symptoms 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
If you have a cat afflicted by this external parasite then you may be wondering how to get rid of ear mites in cats. Luckily treatment is pretty simple once your cat has been diagnosed.
If your cat is diagnosed with ear mites, your vet will provide 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 can kill 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.