Ear mites are highly contagious parasites that cause intense itching and scratching in cats, often leading to infections and health problems. Our Santa Rosa veterinarians discuss their symptoms, causes, and treatment in this section.
What are ear mites?
Ear mites, also known as otodectes cynotis mites, commonly infest cats and belong to the arachnid class of animals. These highly contagious external parasites inhabit the surface of the ear canal and sometimes the skin.
These tiny creatures can be seen as fast-moving white spots, especially if you have good eyesight. They have eight legs, with a noticeably smaller pair of hind legs. You can find images of ear mites in cats using your preferred online search engine. The thumbnail image accompanying this post depicts a buildup of black wax inside a cat's ear with ear mites.
Ear mites can cause severe irritation in cats. Although they are relatively easy to treat, neglecting them can lead to severe skin and ear infections. Suspected ear infections in cats are often due to ear mite infestations. It's important to note that human ear mite infections are rare and generally not considered a health risk.
What causes ear mites in cats?
As you begin reading about the world of ear mites, you might wonder how these parasites infiltrate your cat's ears, causing distress. Some cat owners will eventually ask their veterinarians, "What causes ear mites in cats?" Ear mites spread easily from one infected animal to another due to their high contagiousness.
While cats are most commonly affected, dogs and other wild animals can harbor these pests. If your cat frequents boarding facilities or the outdoors, coming into contact with other animals or contaminated surfaces like grooming tools or bedding can lead to the transmission of ear mites.
Shelter cats often fall victim to ear mites, so it's crucial to examine your newly adopted cat for signs of infestation and promptly schedule a veterinary check-up.
Symptoms of Ear Mites
The most common signs of ear mites in cats include:
- 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
- Head shaking
- Scratching at ears
- Pus
- Inflammation
How to Treat Ear Mites in Cats
Caring for a cat with ear mites is a common concern for many pet owners who search for solutions online on "how to get rid of ear mites in cats." Fortunately, treatment of ear mites in cats is very simple. If your vet confirms that your cat has ear mites, they will prescribe an anti-parasitic medication. This medication can be given orally or applied topically. Additionally, the vet may clean your cat's ears with a specific solution and prescribe antibiotics if the infection is severe.
Your vet will also check for any secondary infections that may have resulted from the mite infestation and treat them as needed. A follow-up appointment in a week or two is likely recommended to ensure that the mites have been eliminated and assess whether further treatment is necessary.
To prevent the spread of the infestation, your vet may prescribe medication for any other pets in your household, as ear mites are contagious. Home remedies for ear mites in cats are not recommended, as many don't effectively eliminate mite eggs. This means that even if the mites appear gone, the infestation can recur when the eggs hatch.
Do ear mites affect people?
When humans contract ear mites, the most common cause of infection is transmission from a family pet. Ear mites require a host to survive, so it is not uncommon for them to spread from animal to animal and from person to person.
Infections are more likely to occur when close contact occurs with an infected pet. This contact can happen when you share a bed with your pet or allow your pet onto furniture.
If your pet has ear mites, they can travel to your bedding and furniture and attach themselves to you as a human host.
It's important to note that you don't need to have your pet to get ear mites. You can develop an infection by coming into close contact with anyone's pet that has ear mites.
For example, you might visit someone's home and sit on a couch infested with ear mites, or you could even get ear mites from playing with an animal that has an infection.
How long does it take to get rid of ear mites in cats?
The time it takes to eliminate ear mites in cats can vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the treatment used. Generally, it can take from a few weeks to a month.
How can ear mites be prevented in cats?
Remember to schedule a monthly check-up and ear cleaning with your veterinarian to prevent ear mites. Also, set a biweekly reminder to clean your cat's kennel, bedding, and house to reduce the home infection risk. Don't forget to consult your veterinarian at Montecito Veterinary Center for recommendations on parasite-prevention products for your cat.
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.