Ear Mites In Cats – Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Many cat owners worry about their pets’ health because cats have delicate bodies and sensitive natures. Among many health concerns, ear mites are one issue that can affect cats badly (Related topic: Can cats have down syndrome?). Yes, don’t take ear mites in cats lightly.

Moreover, if not addressed in time, they can lead to serious problems, including damage to the inner ear and eardrum and even hearing loss in these small creatures.

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According to research and observations, ear mites usually spread when cats go outdoors or mix with other cats or animals that have ear mites. After briefly discussing the ear mites in cats, let’s know their symptoms, treatment, prevention, and more.

What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites, also known as Otodectes cynotis, are very small bugs in cats’ ears. They’re so tiny you can’t see them without a special tool. These mites like to eat the wax and oils in your cat’s ears. They can make your cat’s ears very itchy and sore.

Key Facts About Ear Mites:

• They are miniscule (very small like a pinpoint).
• They live in cats’ ear canals.
• They can spread easily between animals.
• They’re more common in kittens and outdoor cats.

Symptoms Of Ear Mites In Cats

Ear mites can trigger discomfort in cats, leading to noticeable changes in their behavior. Spotting the symptoms early ensures quicker treatment and relief. How can you tell if your cat has ear mites? Watch for these signs:

• Cat will hold its ears flat against its head.
• Scratching: Your cat might often scratch their ears.
• Unusual Head Shakes: They may shake their head more than usual.
• Dark Ear Wax: The inside of their ears might look dirty with dark, crumbly stuff.
• Red Or Swollen Ears: Their ears might look sore or puffy.
• Bad Smell: Their ears might have a strange odor.
• Losing Fur: Some cats might lose hair around their ears from scratching.

If you see any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check with your vet.

Causes Of Ear Mites In Cats

Ear mites in cats often spread through close contact with infected animals. Understanding how cats get ear mites can help prevent future infestations. Let’s examine some of the common causes of ear mites in cats.

• Contact With Infected Animals: If your cat plays with a cat or dog with ear mites, they might also catch them.
• Dirty Environments: Exposure to places with many animals, like shelters, sometimes have ear mites.
• Sharing Items: Using the same bed or toys as an infected animal can spread ear mites.

How Vets Diagnose Ear Mites?

When you suspect your cat might have ear mites, you should take them to the vet for a check-up. They can make sure it’s ear mites and not something else. Here’s how vets check for ear mites:

• Ear Inspection: They use a special tool, an otoscope, to examine your cat’s ears.
• Checking Ear wax: The vet may collect dark gunk from your cat’s ears to examine it closely with a special magnifying tool.
• Ruling Out Other Problems: Sometimes, other issues can look like ear mites. The vet will make sure it’s not an infection or something else.

Treatment For Ear Mites In Cats

Ear mites can cause itching and discomfort in your cat’s ears, but there are effective ways to help them feel better and get rid of these pests. Once a vet diagnoses ear mites, they can guide you in eliminating them. Here’s how to identify and treat ear mites in cats:

Medication

• Ear Drops: The vet might give you special drops in your cat’s ears.
• Spot-On Treatments: Some medicines go on the back of your cat’s neck and work through their whole body.
• Injections: Sometimes, the vet might shoot your cat to kill the mites.

Cleaning

• Ear Cleaning: The vet might clean your cat’s ears or show you how to do it at home.
• Regular Care: You might need to clean your cat’s ears and give medicine for a few weeks.

Home Care

• Follow Instructions: When giving your cat the medicine, make sure you follow the animal doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Treat All Pets: If you have other pets, they might need treatment too, even if they don’t seem sick.
• Clean The House: Wash your cat’s bedding and vacuum to remove any mites in your home.

Preventing Ear Mites In Cats

Keeping ear mites away from cats is easier than treating them later. Simple steps can help protect your feline friend from these tiny pests. Some ways to keep your cat safe are the following:

• Regular Check-Ups: Take your cat to the vet for check-ups to catch problems early.
• Clean Ears: When you brush and tidy up your cat, remember to softly wipe their ears, too.
• Use Preventive Medicine: Some flea treatments, such as Ivermectin, Selamectin and Moxidectin also help prevent ear mites.
• Keep The Environment Clean: Often wash where your cat sleeps and tidy up the places it spends time.
• Be Careful With New Pets: Check new animals for ear mites before introducing them to your cat.
• Limit Outdoor Time: Keeping your cat indoors can reduce their risk of getting ear mites.