How to detect ear mites in a cat?

What Are Ear Mites?

Life Cycle of Otodectes Cynotis

Ear mite infestations become apparent only after the parasite completes several developmental phases, making knowledge of the Otodectes cynotis life cycle essential for reliable identification in felines.

Egg: laid on the surface of the ear canal, hatch in 3–4 days.
Larva: six-legged, feeds on debris and skin flakes for 3–5 days before molting.
Nymph: eight-legged, undergoes two successive stages, each lasting 3–5 days, with continued feeding.
Adult: fully formed, lives 2–3 weeks on the host, reproduces continuously, depositing 10–30 eggs daily.

The complete cycle spans approximately 2 weeks under optimal temperature and humidity. Rapid reproduction results in exponential population growth; a single female can produce up to 300 eggs during her lifespan.

Clinical signs correlate with specific stages. Early larval and nymphal activity produces mild itching and occasional scratching, while adult mites cause intense pruritus, dark crusty debris (often described as “ear wax”), and secondary bacterial infection. Visible debris and inflammation typically emerge after the second week of infestation, coinciding with the adult phase.

Accurate detection therefore relies on timing examinations to the period when adults dominate the ear canal. Otoscopic inspection should focus on the ear canal walls for live mites, translucent eggs, and the characteristic debris. Cytological smears taken during this window reveal the distinctive shape of adult Otodectes cynotis, confirming infestation. Early identification, before the adult stage fully establishes, reduces the likelihood of severe inflammation and simplifies treatment.

How Ear Mites Spread

Ear mites, primarily Otodectes cynotis, propagate through direct and indirect contact among cats. The parasite’s life cycle lasts about three weeks, allowing rapid spread in environments where cats interact frequently.

Direct feline contact: Nose-to-nose or face-to-face encounters transfer adult mites and larvae during grooming or play.
Maternal transmission: A queen infested during pregnancy or lactation passes mites to kittens through close contact and nursing.
Shared resources: Bedding, blankets, grooming tools, and litter boxes harbor viable mites for up to two weeks, facilitating indirect transmission.
Multi‑species exposure: Dogs, rabbits, and wildlife carrying the same mite species can infect cats through interspecies contact.

Environmental contamination sustains infestations; mites survive off‑host for several days, especially in warm, humid conditions. Reducing shared items, maintaining hygiene, and isolating affected animals interrupt the transmission chain and lower the risk of new cases.

Recognizing the Signs of Ear Mites

Behavioral Indicators

Ear mite infestations in felines produce distinct behavioral signs that owners can observe without veterinary equipment. Cats frequently exhibit excessive ear scratching, often directed toward the inner canal rather than the outer pinna. Persistent head shaking, especially after brief periods of rest, indicates irritation of the ear canal. Repeated pawing at the ears may accompany these actions, suggesting discomfort.

Additional observable behaviors include:

Reluctance to be touched near the ears, showing pain response when the area is examined.
Sudden changes in grooming patterns, such as neglecting ear cleaning while maintaining overall coat hygiene.
Vocalizations of distress when the cat lies down, reflecting internal irritation.

These behaviors, when combined, provide reliable evidence of ear mite presence and warrant prompt veterinary assessment.

Excessive Scratching Around the Ears

Excessive scratching around a cat’s ears often signals an underlying ear problem, with ear mites being a common cause. The behavior usually intensifies when the animal attempts to relieve irritation caused by the parasites’ movement and secretions.

Observe the following details while the cat scratches:

Scratching persists despite routine grooming.
The cat rubs its head against furniture or walls repeatedly.
The hind limbs may also be used to scratch the ear region, indicating deep discomfort.

Inspect the ear canal for additional evidence. Look for a dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris that may crumble when touched, and note any foul odor. Small, moving specks visible against the debris confirm the presence of mites. If the debris is absent but inflammation and redness remain, a veterinary examination is required to rule out alternative conditions such as bacterial or yeast infections.

Prompt identification of these signs allows early treatment, reducing the risk of secondary infections and preventing the spread of mites to other animals.

Head Shaking

Head shaking is a frequent response observed in cats suffering from ear mite infestations. The parasites irritate the ear canal, causing inflammation that triggers rapid, involuntary movements of the head to relieve discomfort. This behavior often appears as sudden, repetitive jerks, especially after the cat has been resting or grooming.

Typical characteristics of head shaking associated with ear mites include:

Sharp, swift motions lasting a few seconds to several minutes.
Increased frequency when the cat’s ears are touched or when it lies down.
Accompanying signs such as scratching at the ears, dark debris in the ear canal, and a foul odor.

Veterinarians consider persistent head shaking, combined with visible ear debris, a reliable clinical indicator for confirming the presence of otodectic mites in felines. Prompt examination of the ear canal confirms the diagnosis and guides appropriate treatment.

Irritability or Pain When Ears Are Touched

Cats that become agitated or cry when their ears are handled often signal an underlying problem. The discomfort may stem from inflammation, debris, or parasites that irritate the delicate skin of the ear canal.

When evaluating a cat’s reaction, observe the following:

Sudden head shaking or tilting toward the affected ear.
Scratching or rubbing the ear against objects.
Vocalization (growling, hissing) specifically when the ear is touched.
Visible redness, swelling, or a dark, wax‑like discharge.

These behaviors suggest that the ear canal is irritated, a condition commonly associated with ear mite infestation. Ear mites produce a gritty sensation that provokes pain, leading the cat to resist handling.

If irritability is present, perform a brief visual inspection. Gently lift the ear flap and look for:

Dark, coffee‑ground debris at the base of the ear.
Excessive wax or flake‑like material.
Inflammation of the ear canal walls.

Do not attempt to clean the ear with cotton swabs or harsh chemicals, as this can exacerbate pain and spread infection. Instead, schedule a veterinary appointment promptly. A professional examination—including otoscopic inspection and microscopic identification of mites—confirms the diagnosis and guides appropriate treatment, such as topical acaricides or systemic medication. Early intervention reduces discomfort and prevents secondary ear infections.

Physical Symptoms

Ear mite infestation in cats produces unmistakable physical signs that allow rapid identification without laboratory testing. The parasites reside in the external ear canal, feeding on skin debris and secretions, which creates a characteristic environment visible to the owner or veterinarian.

Typical manifestations include:

Dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds accumulating in the ear canal and on the outer ear.
Persistent scratching or head shaking, often intensified after resting periods.
Redness and inflammation of the ear canal walls, sometimes accompanied by swelling.
Foul odor emanating from the ears, indicating secondary infection or excessive wax buildup.
Visible mites or their translucent bodies when the ear is examined with a light source or otoscope.

Additional observations may involve secondary bacterial or fungal infections, presenting as thickened discharge, ulceration, or hair loss around the ears. Prompt recognition of these symptoms enables immediate treatment, preventing complications such as chronic otitis or hearing impairment.

Dark, Crumbly Discharge in the Ear Canal

Dark, crumbly material that accumulates in a cat’s ear canal often signals an infestation of ear mites. The discharge typically appears black or brown, has a texture similar to coffee grounds, and may emit a faint, musky odor. Unlike wax produced by healthy ears, this material is not smooth; it breaks apart when pressed and may coat the inner walls of the ear.

When inspecting a cat’s ears, look for the following indicators:

Visible dark, gritty debris in the ear canal
Redness or inflammation of the ear flap and canal
Excessive scratching or head shaking
Odor that is stronger than normal ear scent

If these signs are present, gently lift the ear flap and use a cotton ball to collect a small sample of the discharge. Place the sample on a white surface; a mixture of dark particles and ear wax confirms the typical pattern of mite‑related debris. Microscopic examination reveals oval, translucent organisms moving within the sample, confirming the presence of otodectic mites.

Veterinarians may prescribe topical acaricides or systemic medications to eradicate the parasites. Cleaning the ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution before treatment improves drug penetration and reduces the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Follow‑up examinations after a week of therapy verify that the discharge has cleared and that the ear canal returns to a normal, light‑colored appearance.

Redness or Inflammation of the Ear

Redness or inflammation of the cat’s ear is a visible indicator of an underlying problem. The outer ear canal may appear pink to bright red, the skin may look swollen, and the cat may scratch or shake its head frequently. Heat, tenderness, and a foul odor often accompany the swelling.

When ear mites are present, the inflammation typically follows a distinct pattern. Mites irritate the delicate lining, causing a thin layer of dark, waxy debris that mixes with blood‑tinged fluid. The ear canal may look crusted, and the cat’s behavior usually includes persistent scratching and head shaking. Unlike bacterial infections, the debris is often black and granular rather than purulent.

To assess redness and determine whether ear mites are involved, follow these steps:

Gently lift the ear flap and inspect the canal with a light source.
Look for dark, crumbly debris adhering to the skin.
Note any swelling, heat, or bleeding.
Observe the cat’s reaction; intense irritation suggests a parasitic cause.
Compare the ear’s condition to the opposite side for asymmetry.

If redness persists, the ear feels warm, or the cat shows signs of pain, a veterinarian should examine the ear. Professional diagnosis may include otoscopic visualization, microscopic examination of ear swabs, and, if necessary, cytology to confirm mite presence. Prompt treatment reduces inflammation and prevents secondary infections.

Scabs or Lesions on the Outer Ear

Scabs or lesions on the outer ear are a common external indicator of ear mite infestation in felines. The lesions appear as dry, crusty patches that may be grayish‑brown or blackened, often accompanied by a foul odor. When a cat scratches its ears, the trauma can enlarge the scabs, exposing raw skin that may bleed slightly.

Key observations for accurate assessment:

Crusts localized around the ear canal opening, not spread across the entire pinna.
Presence of dark, granular debris mixed with the scabs, resembling coffee grounds.
Redness and swelling of the surrounding tissue, suggesting inflammation.
Excessive scratching or head shaking, which frequently worsens the lesions.

Differentiation from other otic conditions is essential. Bacterial or fungal infections typically produce moist, pus‑filled discharge rather than dry crusts. Allergic dermatitis may cause itching but rarely results in the characteristic dark debris. Trauma from fighting or grooming produces linear cuts, not the circular, crusted pattern seen with mites.

To confirm the suspicion, gently cleanse the outer ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution, then examine the area under adequate lighting. Use a cotton swab to collect any debris; microscopic evaluation will reveal the oval, translucent mites or their eggs. If mites are identified, initiate a targeted treatment protocol, such as topical acaricides or systemic medication, and repeat the ear cleaning process to remove residual scabs and prevent reinfestation.

Unpleasant Odor from the Ears

Unpleasant odor emanating from a cat’s ears often signals an underlying problem, most commonly an infestation of ear mites. The scent is typically described as strong, rancid, or reminiscent of stale cheese, and it results from the accumulation of debris, wax, and secretions produced by the parasites.

The odor alone does not confirm an infestation, but when combined with other clinical signs it becomes a reliable indicator. Typical accompanying signs include:

Dark, crumbly debris that resembles coffee grounds
Frequent head shaking or pawing at the ears
Redness or inflammation of the ear canal
Audible scratching or rustling noises when the ear is examined

If these symptoms appear together, a veterinary examination should be performed promptly. The veterinarian will usually:

Inspect the ear canal with an otoscope to visualize mites and debris.
Collect a sample of the material for microscopic analysis, confirming the presence of Otodectes cynotis.
Recommend an appropriate antiparasitic treatment, often a topical or systemic medication.

Early detection based on the characteristic odor and associated signs prevents secondary infections, reduces discomfort, and limits the spread of mites to other animals in the household.

Diagnosing Ear Mites at Home

Visual Inspection of the Ears

Visual inspection of a cat’s ears provides the first reliable indication of mite infestation. Open the ear flap gently and observe the canal with a bright light. Normal feline ears appear pinkish‑gray, free of debris, and emit no strong odor. Deviations suggest parasitic activity.

Typical visual cues include:

Dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris coating the ear canal or accumulating at the base of the flap.
Redness or inflammation of the skin lining the canal.
Excessive wax that appears wet or greasy rather than dry and crumbly.
A noticeable foul, yeasty smell emanating from the ear.
Excessive scratching or head shaking, often accompanied by visible irritation.

If any of these signs are present, collect a small sample of the debris on a cotton swab and examine it under low magnification. Ear mites appear as tiny, translucent, oval organisms moving among the debris. Confirmation warrants prompt veterinary treatment.

The «Swab and Smear» Test

The “Swab and Smear” test is a laboratory procedure used to confirm the presence of ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) in feline patients. A sterile cotton swab is inserted into the ear canal, rotated to collect debris, and then the material is transferred onto a glass slide. The slide is gently spread to create an even smear, allowed to air‑dry, and fixed with a drop of methanol. After staining—commonly with a rapid iodine or Giemsa stain—the slide is examined under a light microscope at 100–400× magnification. Characteristic oval, translucent organisms with four pairs of legs indicate an active infestation.

Key points for reliable results:

Use a fresh swab for each ear to avoid cross‑contamination.
Avoid deep insertion; collect material from the visible canal surface.
Apply stain promptly; delayed staining may obscure mite morphology.
Identify mites by their size (≈0.3 mm), leg arrangement, and internal structures.
Record the number of mites per high‑power field to assess severity.

Advantages include direct visualization of the parasite, rapid turnaround (15–20 minutes), and the ability to differentiate mites from bacterial or fungal debris. Limitations involve the need for a microscope, potential false‑negatives if sample collection is insufficient, and the requirement for proper staining technique.

Veterinarians should combine the Swab and Smear test with clinical signs—intense pruritus, dark ceruminous discharge, and ear inflammation—to formulate an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Gathering a Sample

Collecting an ear sample from a cat requires preparation, proper technique, and careful handling to ensure accurate laboratory analysis.

Begin by assembling the necessary items: disposable gloves, a bright light source, a clean cotton swab or fine-tipped ear curette, sterile saline solution, a small sterile container with a lid, and a label with the cat’s identification details.

Wear gloves to prevent contamination and protect both the animal and the handler.
Secure the cat in a calm position; a gentle restraint or assistance from a second person may be needed.
Examine the ear canal with the light source, looking for dark debris, inflammation, or a foul odor that often accompanies mite infestations.
Moisten the cotton swab with saline; avoid excess fluid that could dilute the sample.
Gently insert the swab a short distance into the canal, rotating it to collect crusted material and any visible mites.
Withdraw the swab without touching the outer ear to keep the sample uncontaminated.
Transfer the swab or curette contents into the sterile container, seal it tightly, and label it with the cat’s name, date, and sample type.
Store the container at room temperature if it will be delivered to the laboratory within 24 hours; otherwise, refrigerate at 4 °C, avoiding freezing.

Deliver the sealed sample promptly to a veterinary diagnostic lab, following any specific submission guidelines they provide. Proper collection and handling maximize the likelihood of detecting ear parasites and enable effective treatment planning.

Examining the Sample (If Possible)

When a cat shows signs of ear irritation, collect a small amount of ear debris for microscopic evaluation, if the owner can safely do so. Use a clean cotton swab or a sterile loop to gather crusty material from the canal, avoiding deep insertion that could damage the tympanic membrane. Place the sample on a glass slide, add a drop of mineral oil or saline, cover with a coverslip, and examine under low‑power magnification (10‑40×). Look for the following characteristics:

Oval, translucent bodies about 0.2–0.4 mm long, resembling tiny grains of rice.
Four pairs of short, stubby legs situated near the anterior end.
Movement of live organisms or, in dead specimens, a characteristic “spider‑like” shape with distinct legs.

If microscopy is unavailable, inspect the swab under a magnifying lens. Visible mites or their shed skins confirm an infestation, prompting immediate treatment. In cases where sampling is not feasible, rely on clinical signs and veterinary diagnostics.

When to Seek Professional Veterinary Help

Confirming the Diagnosis

When suspecting ear mite infestation in a feline patient, confirmation relies on objective evidence rather than observation alone. The first step is a thorough otoscopic inspection. Light the ear canal, gently retract the pinna, and look for dark, moving particles resembling peppercorns, along with excess cerumen and inflammation. Note any debris that adheres to the otoscope lens, as this often indicates active infestation.

If visual clues are ambiguous, collect a sample for microscopic analysis. Use a sterile cotton swab or ear curette to obtain cerumen and debris, then place the material on a glass slide with a drop of mineral oil. Examine under low‑power magnification (10‑40×). The presence of oval, translucent organisms measuring 0.2–0.4 mm confirms ear mites; their characteristic legs and gnathosoma are diagnostic.

When microscopy yields inconclusive results, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay can provide definitive identification. Submit the ear swab to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory; the test amplifies mite DNA, delivering a binary positive/negative outcome. PCR is especially useful in early infections where mite numbers are low.

After laboratory confirmation, initiate appropriate acaricidal therapy and schedule a re‑examination within 7–10 days. Re‑inspect the ear canal; reduction or absence of mites and improvement of inflammation verify treatment success. Persistent signs warrant repeat sampling and possible alternative diagnoses, such as bacterial or yeast otitis.

Discussing Treatment Options

Ear mite infestations require prompt treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent secondary infections. Effective options include topical acaricides, systemic medications, and supportive care.

Topical acaricides: Apply products containing selamectin, moxidectin, or pyrethrins directly to the ear canal. Follow label instructions for dosage and repeat intervals, typically every 7–14 days until mites are eradicated.
Prescription ear drops: Use formulations with ivermectin or milbemycin oxime. Administer the prescribed number of drops into each ear, massaging the base of the ear to distribute the medication. Treatment courses usually last 2–3 weeks.
Oral systemic drugs: Administer a single dose of a macrocyclic lactone (e.g., selamectin, milbemycin) or a combination product that includes a flea and heartworm preventative. Systemic therapy reaches mites in the ear canal and any other body sites.
Cleaning protocol: Prior to medication, gently flush the ear with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove debris and excess wax. Use a soft gauze pad; avoid cotton swabs that may damage the canal.
Follow‑up examination: Re‑evaluate the cat after the initial treatment period. Microscopic examination of ear swabs confirms mite clearance; persistent signs warrant a second treatment cycle or alternative medication.

Select the option that aligns with the cat’s health status, age, and any concurrent conditions. Veterinary guidance ensures proper dosing and monitors for adverse reactions.

Preventing Reinfestation

After eliminating ear mites, preventing a new infestation requires thorough environmental control, consistent treatment of all animals, and vigilant monitoring.

Wash all bedding, blankets, and fabric toys in hot water (>60 °C) and dry on high heat.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery; discard vacuum bags or empty the container immediately.
Disinfect hard surfaces with a solution containing at least 1 % bleach or a veterinary‑approved antiseptic.

Treat every cat in the household, even those without symptoms, using the same medication schedule prescribed by a veterinarian. Follow the full course without interruption; premature cessation allows surviving mites to repopulate.

Isolate newly acquired or rescued cats for a minimum of two weeks. During quarantine, examine ears daily for debris, redness, or scratching. If any signs appear, begin treatment promptly and repeat environmental cleaning before re‑introducing the animal.

Maintain regular ear inspections—at least once a month—for all cats. Use a cotton ball moistened with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaner to remove wax and debris, which can harbor dormant mites.

Replace or clean grooming tools after each use. Store them in a sealed container or disinfect them with alcohol to eliminate residual parasites.

By combining rigorous cleaning, comprehensive medication, isolation of newcomers, and ongoing ear checks, the risk of re‑infestation is minimized.

Home Care During Treatment

Cleaning the Ears Safely

Cleaning a cat’s ears safely is essential when checking for ear‑mite infestation. Use a vet‑approved ear cleanser that is pH‑balanced for feline ears. Apply the solution according to the product instructions, usually two to three drops per ear, and gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to loosen debris and wax. Allow the cat to shake its head; this expels excess fluid and loosened material.

After the massage, inspect the ear canal with a bright light. Look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris, excess wax, or inflammation—common indicators of mite presence. Use a soft, lint‑free cotton ball or gauze to wipe the visible outer ear. Never insert cotton swabs or any instrument deeper than the ear opening, as this can damage the delicate skin and push debris further inward.

If the cat shows signs of discomfort, excessive scratching, or a foul odor, discontinue cleaning and seek veterinary evaluation. Regular cleaning, performed once a week for healthy cats and more frequently for those with a history of ear problems, helps maintain ear health and facilitates early detection of parasites.

Key safety steps:

Choose a cleanser formulated for cats; avoid human products.
Keep the cat restrained gently but securely to prevent sudden movements.
Limit cleaning to the outer ear; avoid deep canal intrusion.
Observe the ear for abnormal discharge, redness, or swelling after each session.

Administering Medication

Detecting ear mites in felines often requires prompt medication to eliminate the parasites and relieve inflammation. The chosen product must match the veterinarian’s prescription, whether it is a topical solution, an ointment, or an oral tablet.

When applying a topical preparation, follow these steps:

Gently clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser; excess wax can impede drug absorption.
Hold the cat’s head steady, preferably with a helper, to prevent sudden movements.
Administer the exact dose indicated on the label, depositing the liquid or ointment directly into the ear canal without touching the tip of the bottle to the skin.
Massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to distribute the medication evenly.
Repeat the procedure on the opposite ear, even if symptoms appear unilateral, because mites often infest both sides.

For oral medications, observe the following protocol:

Verify the correct tablet size and dosage based on the cat’s weight.
Offer the pill with a small amount of wet food or use a pill dispenser to place it at the back of the throat.
Ensure the cat swallows the tablet; monitor for signs of regurgitation.
Administer the full course as prescribed, typically once daily for several weeks, to break the mite life cycle.

Safety considerations include:

Checking the expiration date before use; expired products lose efficacy and may cause irritation.
Recording any adverse reactions such as excessive scratching, swelling, or discharge; report these to the veterinarian promptly.
Keeping the medication out of reach of other pets and children to avoid accidental exposure.

Proper administration maximizes therapeutic effect, reduces the risk of reinfestation, and supports rapid recovery of the cat’s ear health.

Prevention Strategies

Regular Ear Checks

Regular ear examinations are essential for early identification of ear mite infestations in cats. A systematic approach reduces the risk of severe inflammation and secondary infections.

When performing a check, follow these steps:

Gently restrain the cat and lift the ear flap to expose the canal.
Use a soft, dim light or a veterinary otoscope to inspect the interior.
Look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris, which often contains mite bodies and feces.
Observe the skin for redness, swelling, or ulceration.
Note any foul odor or excessive wax that appears unusually thick or yellow.

If debris is present, collect a small sample with a cotton swab and compare it to reference images of Otodectes cynotis. Confirmed presence of mites warrants immediate treatment; otherwise, monitor the cat and repeat the examination.

For healthy cats, schedule ear checks at least once a month. Increase frequency to weekly during an outbreak or when a new cat joins the household. Consistent inspections allow prompt detection and prevent the spread of parasites to other pets.

Maintaining Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is essential for early identification of ear parasites in cats. Regular cleaning of the ear canal removes debris that can conceal mites and allows visual inspection of the skin surface. Use a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser; apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds, then let the cat shake its head. Gently wipe the outer ear with a soft cloth or cotton ball, avoiding deep insertion that could damage the canal.

A systematic routine improves detection accuracy:

Examine both ears at least twice weekly, looking for dark, crumb‑like debris or a strong odor.
Note any redness, swelling, or excessive scratching, which often accompany mite infestations.
Record observations in a log to track changes over time and provide precise information to a veterinarian.

Cleaning the cat’s bedding, toys, and grooming tools reduces environmental contamination, limiting the spread of mites and simplifying subsequent examinations. Wash fabrics in hot water and disinfect hard surfaces with a diluted bleach solution or an approved disinfectant.

Consistent hygiene practices create a clear view of the ear condition, facilitating prompt diagnosis and treatment of mite infestations.

Protecting Your Cat from Infected Animals

Protecting your cat from animals that may carry ear parasites requires proactive measures. Limit outdoor access or supervise outdoor time to reduce encounters with stray or wild felines, dogs, and rodents known to harbor ear mites. Keep your cat’s environment clean; wash bedding, toys, and grooming tools regularly with hot water to eliminate potential infestations.

Maintain a routine veterinary schedule. A veterinarian can perform regular ear examinations, identify early signs of infestation, and recommend preventive treatments. Promptly isolate any new animal before introducing it to the household, and conduct a thorough health check, including ear inspection, before contact.

Adopt hygiene practices that minimize transmission risk:

Disinfect shared surfaces such as floors, carpets, and scratching posts with a pet‑safe cleaner.
Use a flea and tick preventive product that also offers protection against ear parasites, as recommended by a veterinarian.
Avoid sharing grooming equipment between pets without proper sterilization.

Monitor your cat for clinical indicators of ear mite presence. Look for excessive scratching, head shaking, dark crusty debris in the ear canal, or a foul odor. Early detection allows swift treatment, preventing spread to other animals in the home.