Ear Mites In Cats

Ear mites are highly contagious parasites that infest the ears of cats and dogs. Ear mites are spread from direct contact between animals. If one pet in the house gets ear mites, the other pets are at high risk of getting ear mites. Ear mites live along the ear canal, but they can be present in the environment of an infested pet. Therefore, when one pet gets ear mites, it is generally recommended that all the cats and dogs in the household get treated.

One of the symptoms of ear mite infestation is persistent scratching at the ears. Cats and dogs with ear mites may shake their heads. Some cats may not show any signs of ear mites. A veterinarian can diagnose ear mites by examining the discharge in the ears. The discharge of an ear infected with ear mites can resemble coffee grounds. Cleaning the affected cat’s ears will be necessary. A veterinarian can show the cat owner how to safely clean the cat’s ears. The veterinarian may clean the cat’s ears and may use an ear solution.

Cleaning of the ears is not sufficient to treat ear mites. An anti-parasitic medication needs to be used to kill the ear mites. Topical solutions are applied to the ears and usually eliminate the infestation and help to prevent future infestations. Eardrops and ointments may be used.

Ear mites can cause an inflammation of the infected ears. A veterinarian may recommend an anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve the discomfort associated with the ear mite infestation. In rare cases, the ear drum can rupture causing imbalance and disorientation. If there are external injuries to the ears due to the cat scratching its ears, the veterinarian may recommend applying an antibiotic ointment to the scratches.

Many medications for treating ear mites successfully end the infestation in seven to ten days. The veterinarian’s instructions for treatment should be followed carefully to fully eradicate the ear mites. After a cat has been treated for ear mites, it should be checked periodically by the veterinarian for signs of a recurrent infestation. A follow up veterinary exam is often done four weeks after ear mite treatment.