Introduction
A common problem in cats is ear mites, especially in young cats. These mites can cause significant discomfort, fortunately most cats rapidly respond to treatment. Those that do not should be investigated for underlying problems.
What are Ear Mites in Cats?
Ear mites are microscopic ectoparasites that live in the ear canals and skin of cats. They are prevalent in kittens and outdoor cats, and are highly contagious. They are highly irritating in a sensitive part of your cat’s ears.
It is possible for your dog to get them from your cat.
Causes of Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites are caused by a parasite. The most common one we encounter in cats is Otodectes cynotis. It is spread by contact, and is especially prevalent in outdoor cats. Kittens can get them when they nurse their mothers.
These mites burrow into the ear canals and cause significant inflammation, leading to excess shaking of the ears. If left untreated this inflammation can possibly cause a secondary bacterial infection, especially since the sensitive lining of the ear canal has been disrupted by the parasite and the trauma from scratching.
Signs and Symptoms of Feline Ear Mites
The primary symptoms of ear mites are :
- Scratching at the ears
- Reluctance to be petted around the head due to pain
- Shaking of the head
- Dark discharge in the ear canals
- Tilting the head
- Odor around the head
- Hair loss around the face
- A decreased appetite (anorexia) and lethargy if severe
These symptoms mimic other ear diseases, so an accurate diagnosis is imperative.
This is typical of the discharge present in a cat with ear mites
This is typical of the ear discharge in ear mites
This is what the ear should look like
Diagnosis of Cat Ear Mites
It is important to make a correct diagnosis early in the course of the disease because it can significantly affect the final outcome. An otoscope can be used, but usually the primary method of diagnosis for this disease is a microscopic check of the discharge for mites. We look for mites or mite eggs, either one gives us a positive diagnosis.
We use a microscope to look for the otodectes mite
If desired, we can quantify the eggs or parasites seen
These are typical of what ear mites look like under the microscope
How to Treat Ear Mites in Cats
Gentle ear cleaning goes a long way towards correcting this problem. These ears are very sensitive, and the ear drum (tympanic membrane) might even be damaged. Cleaning the ears of pets that might have this problem should not be attempted at home until after we have initiated therapy. We have a page devoted to ear cleaning due to its importance.
After the ears are gently cleaned by one of our nurses a topical medication is instilled. This medication contains anti-inflammatories to soothe inflamed ears, antibiotics to minimize secondary bacterial infection, and an anti-paracidicital to kill the mites. Daily cleaning of the ears and application of medication is continued until the problem is resolved, usually 7-10 days.
In some cats we use an injectable medication called Ivermectin. This drug is especially useful in cats with ears that are too sensitive to clean, or in cats that it is unlikely that you will be able to clean the ears at home on a daily basis. Ivermectin is very effective and is used commonly, although a very small percentage of cats can have a reaction to this drug and develop central nervous system signs.
A type of ivermectin for ear mites that needs only one dose
The flea control product by Pfizer called “Revolution” will also kill ear mites. We recommend it as the best overall product for cats for flea and parasite control. We offer special pricing on all our dog and cat flea products that is less expensive than those advertise on TV and web site like PetMeds and Chewy.
How To Prevent Cat Ear Mites
The best method of prevention is to eliminate exposure to affected cats. Check your cats ears several times weekly and clean them as often as needed. Always clean the ear very gently to prevent trauma to a diseased ear drum. Using the flea control product Revolution by Pfizer is the best way to go to control ear mites and general parasites, including fleas.
FAQ’s
How can you tell dirty ears from ear mites in cats?
You cannot tell for sure unless you look at the discharge under a microscope for mites.
Do I need to clean my house if my cat has ear mites?
Treat all cats, put a flea powder in the carpet, and then vacuum thoroughly. Repeat this 2 weeks later.
Can humans catch cat ear mites?
It would be very rare for a human to get ear mites, since we are not the typical host for this parasite.