Cats of all ages frequently have ear mites, or Otodectes cynotis as they are technically called. They are particularly common among outdoor cats and kittens. These mites are extremely contagious and can frequently transfer between dogs and cats when they come into proximity. Ear mites cause severe pain and inflammation by burrowing into the ear canals. Itching, shaking of the head, and unusual ear discharge are common symptoms of infestation in pets.
While they can be extremely uncomfortable, cat ear mites are usually not fatal. However, they can result in pain, severe inflammation in the ear canals, and subsequent bacterial infections if left untreated. In extreme circumstances, this can lead to an eardrum rupture and hearing loss. Bring your cat to the doctor right away to find out the cause if you observe thick ear debris and excessive ear scratching. Before answering the question of how to treat ear mites in cats, you should know what is ear mites.
What are Feline Ear Mites?
Tiny parasites called ear mites live in the skin surrounding the ear canals of dogs and cats. Unlike certain other mites, they would rather reside on the skin’s surface than dig more beneath it. Cat ear infections are frequently brought on by ear mites, particularly in kittens.
How do Cats with Ear Mites Look?
Perhaps you’re curious about what ear mites look like. It’s doubtful that you will be able to notice ear mites with your unaided eyes because they are so tiny. Your veterinarian might use an otoscope or microscope to identify an infestation. It is preferable to keep an eye out for the symptoms of cat ear mites rather than the mites themselves.
Cats with Ear Mite Symptoms
Cat ear mite symptoms can include:
- Dark, thick ear debris
- Pain in the ears
- Shaking of the head
- frequent ear scratching
- Head tilting
- pronounced ear odor
- Loss of hair around the eyes and ears
- Sluggishness
- Reduced desire to eat
Reasons Why Cats Get Ear Mites
Cats who come into close touch with an animal that is infected with ear mites can contact them. Ear mites are extremely contagious and can spread fast among dogs and other cats living in the same home. Ear mites are typically transferred from mothers to kittens. Reasons for ear mites are very important before discussing how to treat ear mites in cats.
If monthly preventatives are not kept up to date, cats are particularly vulnerable to contracting ear mites. Although ear mites can infect cats indoors as well, they tend to afflict cats who are permitted outdoors more frequently because of the higher danger of exposure to other infected animals and the surrounding environment.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Cat Ear Mites
For a precise diagnosis, cats exhibiting signs of ear mites ought to consult a veterinarian. Pet parents will be asked whether their cat spends any time outside if there are other pets in the home, and if their cat is currently on any monthly preventatives.
A comprehensive physical examination will be performed first by the veterinarian, who will use an otoscope to examine the cat’s ears closely.
Generally, ear mites are very likely if the vet discovers debris in the cat’s ears that resembles coffee grounds. Ear cytology, on the other hand, is performed for two purposes and can be utilized to bolster a diagnosis:
- A veterinarian removes material from the ear using a cotton swab, mixes it with a tiny bit of oil, and examines it under a microscope to check for mites. This makes it easy to view ear mites and their eggs.
- Using a cotton swab, material from the ear is rolled onto a slide to test for bacterial infections. Next, to look for germs, the slide is stained and inspected under a microscope. Cats with ear mites frequently have secondary bacterial infections in the ear canal.
Therapy for Cat Ear Mites
To get rid of ear mites, cats need to be treated. During this course of treatment, you should use an ear cleanser, like Epi-Otic® Advanced, once a day to get rid of extra debris in your ears. Here are different therapies for how to treat ear mites in cats.
For the treatment of cat ear mites, there are two primary options:
Topical Drops
These can be inserted straight into the ear canal to eradicate mites. Two examples of drugs that work well are ivermectin and milbemycin.
Preventative measures against fleas, ticks, and heartworms
These treatments are given topically to the cat’s skin between the shoulder blades and effectively eradicate ear mites with just one dose. Some examples come from Advantage MultiTM and Revolution®.
In addition to mite treatment, a topical antibiotic ointment will be applied if a bacterial infection is also present in the ear canal. It may be necessary to give topical or oral medicines, such as prednisolone, to cats with severe ear inflammation. A veterinarian should treat all household pets for ear mites as they spread swiftly through close contact.
Recovering and Treating Cat Ear Mites
Provided that pet parents faithfully adhere to their veterinarian’s advice regarding the proper cleaning and application of medication, cats can usually recover from ear mites with just one course of topical treatment. Cats typically feel better a few days after starting medication, but mite elimination takes about a month.
Cat owners must schedule a follow-up visit with their veterinarian for their feline companion after therapy is finished. This is to ensure that there are no more ear mites and that no further treatment is required.
Elimination of Cat Ear Mites
Using topical flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives every month of the year is a crucial step in keeping cats’ ears free of ear mites. A cat’s ears can stay free of buildup which could provide an environment that is conducive to ear mite growth by cleaning them once a week.
Since ear mites are extremely contagious, until the mites are eradicated, healthy pets should not be housed with afflicted ones. Another way to lower your cat’s risk of mite exposure is to keep them indoors.
Conclusion
This article will help you to know how to treat ear mites in cats. Treating ear mites in cats requires prompt and thorough care to alleviate discomfort and prevent the spread of these highly contagious parasites. Regular ear cleaning, appropriate use of vet-recommended medications, and maintaining a clean environment are crucial steps in managing and preventing ear mite infestations. Always consult with your veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and treatment plans tailored to your cat’s specific needs. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can ensure your cat remains healthy and free from the discomfort caused by ear mites.
FAQs Frequently Asked Questions
Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in the ear canals of cats. They feed on the ear wax and oils in a cat’s ear, causing irritation and discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
Excessive scratching or rubbing of the ears
Head shaking
Dark, crumbly ear discharge resembling coffee grounds
Inflammation and redness of the ear
Unpleasant odor from the ears
A veterinarian will diagnose ear mites by examining the ear discharge under a microscope. They might also use an otoscope to look inside the cat’s ear canal.
Treatment involves:
Cleaning the ears: Remove debris and wax using a vet-recommended ear cleaner.
Topical medications: Apply ear mite treatments prescribed by your vet directly into the ear canal.
Oral or injectable medications: Some medications are available in oral or injectable forms that kill mites.
Yes, there are over-the-counter treatments available. However, it is always best to consult your veterinarian before using them to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your cat.
Treatment usually takes several weeks. Follow the vet’s instructions on the duration of treatment to ensure all mites and eggs are eradicated.
Yes, ear mites are highly contagious and can spread to other cats, dogs, and sometimes rabbits. Keep infected animals separated and treat all household pets simultaneously.
Preventive measures include:
Regular ear cleaning and check-ups
Using monthly parasite preventives recommended by your vet
Keeping your cat indoors to reduce contact with infected animals
Ear mites primarily infect animals and are rare in humans. However, they can cause skin irritation in people who come into close contact with an infected animal.
If your cat’s symptoms persist or worsen after treatment, consult your veterinarian. There may be an underlying issue or a secondary infection requiring further attention.
