Vet-Verified Guide to Cat Ear Mites: Symptoms and Natural Treatments
Think your cat has ear mites? Curious about natural treatments? I’ll show you how to spot the signs and share simple remedies to help your cat feel better fast.
What are Cat Ear Mites?
Ear mites in cats, also known as Otodectes cynotis mites, are tiny parasites that invade the ear canal, often leading to ear infections (otitis externa). These infestations are more common in winter and usually affect outdoor cats more than indoor ones.
How do mite infestations happen?
Ear mites are highly contagious parasites, particularly common in young outdoor cats. They spread through direct contact with an infected cat, making infestations prevalent in outdoor cats and in shelters, where close interaction is frequent.
Are ear mites contagious to humans?
Fortunately, ear mites can’t be transmitted to humans, but they can spread to dogs and other household pets. If you have both a cat and a dog, and one has ear mites, it’s important to treat both pets, even if the other isn’t showing symptoms.
What happens if ear mites go untreated in cats?
Ear mites not only affect the ear canal of cats but can also cause severe itching and lead to secondary skin infections.
If left untreated, ear mites can result in secondary infections like otitis externa, where bacteria and yeast multiply. This can escalate to a ruptured eardrum, inner ear problems, and even neurological symptoms or deafness.
Signs of Mite Infestation in a Cat's Ears
Cats with ear mites usually show the following signs:
- Severe irritation which may manifest as an itchy ear.
- Alopecia (hair loss may be prevalent in the ear, head, and face).
- Ear infection (mites tend to cause secondary ear infections that may be yeast or bacteria-dominant).
- An infected animal may exhibit head shaking, excessive scratching and other allergy symptoms.
If you notice symptoms of ear mites in your cat, be sure to consult a vet or pet wellness expert.
Diagnosing an Ear Mite Infestation in Cats
Diagnosing ear mites in cats is usually straightforward. Your veterinarian will assess the clinical signs and may perform an otoscopic exam to look inside the ear, along with a cytology test to confirm the presence of mites.
Otoscopy involves examining a cat’s ear canal using an otoscope, a tool similar to a magnifying glass with a light. During the exam, your veterinarian will look for signs of ear mites, such as:
- Excess ear wax (cerumen)
- Presence of blood and discharge
- Presence of mites within the ear canal
Keep in mind that diagnosis doesn’t end with identifying ear mites. Your veterinarian will also need to check for suspected ear infections to ensure your cat receives comprehensive treatment.
To check for an ear infection, the veterinarian will collect some ear debris—which may resemble coffee grounds—and examine it under a microscope to identify any yeast or bacteria.
How I Treat Ear Mites in Cats Quickly in the Clinic
Let’s be honest—ear mites in cats and dogs are pretty gross, and most pet owners just want them gone fast. The quickest and easiest way to get rid of them is to pick up a topical miticidal (medication that kills mites) from your vet clinic.
Some common miticidals I’ve used include:
- Ivermectin – Instill in the ear once.
- Milbemycin (MilbeMite) – Instill in the ear once, then repeat after 2 weeks.
- Selamectin (Revolution) – Apply once a month between the shoulder blades.
- Afoxolaner (Nexgard Spectra) – Apply topically between the shoulder blades once a month.
Besides eliminating existing parasites, miticidal treatments can also prevent ear mites.
What Kills Ear Mites in Cats Naturally
If you're seeking a natural, chemical-free method to eliminate adult ear mites and their eggs, you can try using mineral oil and apple cider vinegar.
Start by mixing apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water (a 50:50 ratio). This solution can serve as an effective ear cleaner and help break up excessive earwax.
After cleaning the ear, apply mineral oil or baby oil once a day for three weeks. The mineral oil can suffocate the mites and is safe for your cat.
A word of caution:
Never put anything in your cat’s ear without first consulting a veterinarian. A vet must confirm the integrity of the eardrum before using mineral oil or apple cider vinegar to prevent potential ear damage or infection. If you suspect an issue, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Zumalka Ear Care for Cats
Cats suffering from ear mite infestations endure significant discomfort. Zumalka’s natural, homeopathic EAR CARE remedy is designed to support ear and skin health during recovery. Specifically crafted to boost your pet’s natural defenses, this remedy helps maintain ear health by addressing the root causes of ear infections.
It addresses chronic yellow ear discharge, pain, bleeding, ear inflammation, hardening of the eardrum, deafness, and even unpleasant odors. In developing this outstanding solution, our goal was to provide a comprehensive approach to your pet’s ear health and comfort.
Remember to complement Zumalka's EAR CARE with mineral oil and apple cider vinegar, but always with your veterinarian’s approval for optimal results.
In Conclusion
If you notice ear mites in your cat’s ears, don’t panic! The most effective way to treat them is by using a miticidal medication like Revolution or Nexgard Spectra.
These treatments will not only eliminate ear mites in cats but also prevent them from returning. They’re quick, easy, and highly effective! If you prefer a natural approach, mineral oil is another option in treating ear mites. Just make sure to consult your vet first to ensure your cat’s eardrum is healthy.
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Thank you P. Cooper, we have sent you an email with more questions about the issue to find you a targeted solution ! Please check your inbox or spam folder for an email from Zumalka
Cat has bare spots on outside of ear. Not red. Are these mites or a dermatitis. what home remedy can use. apple cider vinegar or aloe vera?
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