Ear mites in cats, scientifically known as Otodectes cynotis, are a common parasitic infestation in cats, especially kittens, and outdoor cats. They account for 50-80% of cases of otitis externa (ear infections) in cats and are deemed the most common ectoparasite in domestic cats in many countries.
Studies show that around 17.4% of cats in Europe are affected, and the prevalence rate is higher in kittens; about 14% can be infected. These disturbing mites cause symptoms like itching, head shaking, and ear debris like coffee grounds. Proper diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications arising from secondary infections or loss of hearing.
There are several species of mites that can infest the ear canals, but Otodectes cynotis is the most common in cats. The ear mite life cycle requires about 21 days to complete. There are four phases in the life cycle:
- The eggs are laid on the surface of the ear canal and take about 4 days to hatch
- The nymphs molting from the eggs feed for several days before resting for a day before the second molt
- The nymphs feed for 4 days then moult and feed again for about another 4 days before moulting again and becoming adults
- Adult ear mites feed on the skin flakes and secretions in the ear canal and lay their eggs to start the next generation.
Symptoms Of Ear Mites in Cat
So as soon as the mites infect the ears they stimulate the glands in the ears to produce more ear wax. Often a thick brown layer of ear wax in the canal is always an early symptom of ear mite infestation. The mites appear as tiny white moving objects on the brown wax. Apart from this, your cats might also show the following symptoms:
- Scratching the ears
- Shaking the head
- Bleeding in the ear canals
Treatment and Prevention
Depending upon the medication used, the ears may need to be treated for up to 4 weeks until all mites are killed. Many ear mites live all over the body, including the back and tail so these areas should also be treated. Be sure to use products approved for cats and treat all household pets, as ear mites are easily transferred.
Ear Mite Medication For Cats
Treatment of ear mites should start with ear cleaning to clear excessive debris and discharge using a cat-specific ear cleaner. Then, the ears are treated with a topical preparation, which is an ear drop, targeting the killing of the mites.
This course should then be maintained for 2 weeks until your cat is cured. This will ensure that all ear mites are killed. Here are some popular ear mite medication for cats:
OTODEX VETERINARY EAR DROPS
It contains a wax solvent to remove wax, fungicides, and bactericides, including an anti-bacterial which is particularly useful against common and difficult-to-treat bacteria in chronic ear cases; a mild analgesic to relieve pain and an emollient to moisturise the skin. Otodex also kills mites!
Epiotic Ear cleaner
This can be used for regular ear cleaning, to help prevent ear infections (Otitis externa), or as a supplement to medicated ear treatment. Its antibacterial and anti-yeast properties make it effective against the main bacteria and yeasts that commonly infect the ear canal. Anti-adhesive glycotechnology prevents bacteria from sticking to skin cells in the ear canal stopping the cause of infection.
Indorex Defence Spray
It is a comprehensive treatment for parasitic insects such as fleas from your house. Since fleas spend most of their time in the surroundings of your pet and not, in fact, on your pet, treating your home is as important as treating your animals.
- effective against fleas in your home for up to 12 months
- comes with ingredients to kill adult fleas, eggs, larvae, and dust mites
- Only one can be needed to treat an average three-bedroom house.
Pro tip : Treat the cat with a flea product, as this will help in killing ear mite on other parts of the body. Using an indoor flea spray will also keep your home free from parasites.
Prevention Tips for Ear Mites in Cats
Preventing ear mites in cats requires a combination of regular care and proactive treatments. Here's how to go about it:
- Use Preventative Treatments: There are monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention products that also target ear mites. Consult your vet for suitable options
- Schedule Routine Checkups: Regular veterinary checkups, including ear cleaning, can help detect and prevent infestation early
- Hygiene: Maintain cleanliness in your pet's environment, such as changing the bedding and cleaning grooming tools and reducing the risks of the mites spreading
- Minimise Contact: Limit interactions with stray or infected animals that might transmit ear mites.
Taking all these precautions can considerably minimise the chances of infestation by ear mites and significantly improve a cat's ear health.
Conclusion
Ear mites are tiny, but they cause great distress to cats, with symptoms like itching and head shaking, in addition to ear discharge. Such infestations demand your early detection and prompt treatment to rescue your cat's comfort and avoid complications.
Topical treatments and professional care provided by veterinarians can get it sorted out. For preventing infestation, always focus on regular cleanings of your cat's ears but also the routine vet visits and use of anti-parasitic treatments. Keep a watchful and proactive eye on your cat, and it will enjoy a healthy, comfortable life without these pesky parasites.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get rid of ear mites in cats?
Use vet-recommended ear mite treatments, including topical drops or oral medications.
How do ear mites affect kittens?
Ear mites can cause itching, inflammation, and discomfort, especially in young kittens.
What do ear mites look like in a cat's ears?
They appear as tiny white dots, often accompanied by dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds.
Can ear mites cause deafness in cats?
Severe infestations may lead to complications like temporary hearing loss but rarely permanent deafness.
How to treat ear mites in kittens under 12 weeks?
Consult a vet for safe treatments, as some medications are unsuitable for young kittens.
What is feline ear mite medication?
These are vet-prescribed products like topical solutions, oral treatments, or medicated drops.
Are there oral treatments for ear mites in cats?
Yes, some oral medications prescribed by vets can effectively eliminate ear mites.
What are ear mite drops for cats?
These are topical solutions applied directly to the ears to kill mites and soothe irritation.
What causes excessive earwax in cats?
Excessive earwax may result from ear mites, infections, allergies, or underlying medical issues.
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