What should you do if an ear mite is found on a cat?

Identifying Ear Mites in Cats

Recognizing the Symptoms

Head Shaking and Scratching

Head shaking and frequent scratching are primary signals that ear mites are present in a cat’s ears. The parasites irritate the ear canal, causing a sensation of fullness that prompts the animal to move its head vigorously and use its paws to relieve discomfort. Observing these behaviors should trigger an immediate inspection of the ear canal for dark debris, inflammation, or a foul odor.

If such signs appear, follow these steps:

Gently lift the cat’s ear and examine the inner surface with a light source; look for brownish wax resembling coffee grounds.
Clean the ear using a veterinarian‑approved solution, applying the liquid to the canal and allowing it to soak for the recommended time before wiping excess material.
Administer the prescribed acaricidal medication, typically a topical drop or oral treatment, according to the dosage schedule.
Re‑evaluate the ears after 7–10 days; persistent shaking or scratching indicates incomplete eradication and requires a follow‑up visit.

Consistent observation of head shaking and pawing, combined with prompt cleaning and targeted treatment, eliminates the infestation and prevents secondary infections.

Dark, Waxy Discharge

Dark, waxy discharge in a cat’s ear often signals an infestation of ear mites. The secretion appears brown to black, thick, and may emit a strong odor. Presence of this material indicates that the mites have multiplied and are damaging the ear canal lining.

When such discharge is observed, take the following actions:

Separate the affected cat from other animals to prevent spread.
Inspect the ear with a flashlight; note swelling, redness, and the amount of discharge.
Gently flush the ear using a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser; avoid cotton swabs that can push debris deeper.
Apply a topical acaricide prescribed by a veterinarian; follow the dosing schedule precisely.
Schedule a veterinary appointment for a complete examination, laboratory confirmation, and possible systemic treatment.

Prompt cleaning and medication reduce inflammation, eliminate the mites, and prevent secondary bacterial infection. Continuous monitoring for recurrence ensures the infestation is fully resolved.

Odor from the Ears

Ear mite infestations often produce a distinctive smell that signals infection. The odor typically results from a combination of earwax, debris, and bacterial growth stimulated by the mites’ activity. A pungent, rancid, or yeasty scent indicates that the ear canal is clogged and that secondary infections may be developing.

The presence of odor requires immediate attention. First, isolate the cat to prevent the spread of mites to other animals. Then, perform a visual inspection: look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris and inflamed skin. If the smell is strong, proceed with the following steps:

Clean the ear canal – Use a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser. Apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, and allow the cat to shake. Wipe excess fluid and debris with a soft gauze pad; avoid cotton swabs that can damage the canal.
Administer medication – Apply the prescribed topical mite treatment directly into the ear canal, following the dosage schedule. Systemic medications may be recommended if the infection is severe.
Monitor for improvement – Re‑evaluate the odor after 24‑48 hours. A reduction in smell indicates that debris and bacterial overgrowth are decreasing. Persistent odor suggests a secondary infection requiring antibiotic therapy.
Prevent reinfestation – Treat all animals in the household, clean bedding, and disinfect grooming tools. Regular ear checks help catch early signs before odor develops.

If the odor does not diminish after initial treatment, schedule a veterinary re‑examination. Persistent smell may signal chronic otitis externa, requiring culture and targeted antimicrobial therapy. Prompt management of ear odor reduces discomfort, prevents complications, and restores normal ear health.

Inflammation and Redness

Ear mites commonly cause visible inflammation and redness inside a cat’s ear canal. The skin lining the canal becomes swollen, and the outer ear may appear pink or flushed. Excessive redness often accompanies a dark, waxy discharge that smells foul, indicating secondary infection risk.

Inflammation signals that the mite’s activity is irritating the ear’s delicate tissue, which can lead to pain, hearing loss, and bacterial overgrowth if left untreated. Prompt attention prevents chronic damage and improves the animal’s comfort.

Effective response includes:

Inspect the ears gently; note swelling, color change, and discharge.
Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved solution to remove debris and reduce irritation.
Apply a topical acaricide specifically formulated for feline ear mites; follow dosage instructions precisely.
Administer an anti‑inflammatory medication if prescribed, to lessen swelling and redness.
Schedule a veterinary exam to confirm eradication, assess for bacterial infection, and receive follow‑up treatment if necessary.

Monitoring after treatment is essential; persistent redness or renewed swelling warrants immediate veterinary reassessment.

Confirming the Diagnosis

Veterinary Examination

When a cat presents with signs of ear mites, the veterinarian begins with a systematic examination of the ear canal. The clinician first inspects the outer ear for redness, swelling, or debris. Using an otoscope, the professional visualizes the tympanic membrane and assesses the presence of live mites, eggs, or excessive wax.

The examination proceeds with sample collection. A small amount of ear discharge is expressed onto a microscope slide, stained if necessary, and examined under magnification to confirm otodectic mange. The vet also palpates the head and neck to rule out secondary infections or other dermatological conditions.

Based on the findings, the veterinarian formulates a treatment protocol, which typically includes:

Topical acaricide applied according to label directions
Cleaning solution to remove debris and reduce mite load
Systemic medication if severe or concurrent infection is detected
Instruction for the owner on proper administration and environmental control

A follow‑up appointment is scheduled within 7–10 days to reassess ear condition, verify mite eradication, and adjust therapy if residual signs persist. Documentation of the examination, diagnostic results, and treatment plan ensures continuity of care and facilitates monitoring of the cat’s recovery.

Microscopic Analysis

Microscopic examination is the definitive method for confirming the presence of ear mites in a feline patient. After visual inspection suggests infestation, a veterinarian should obtain a sample by gently flushing the ear canal with a sterile saline solution or using a fine curette to collect debris. The fluid or collected material is placed on a clean glass slide, covered with a coverslip, and examined under a light microscope at 10–40× magnification.

Key diagnostic features include:

Elongated, translucent bodies measuring 0.2–0.3 mm.
Four pairs of legs with characteristic hook‑shaped claws.
Presence of eggs (oval, 0.1 mm) and fecal pellets (black specks).

If the microscope reveals these structures, the practitioner can proceed with targeted acaricidal therapy, such as topical selamectin or systemic ivermectin, following dosage guidelines. In cases where no mites are observed, alternative causes of otitis—bacterial, fungal, or allergic—should be investigated, and appropriate diagnostics (culture, cytology) initiated.

Accurate microscopic analysis reduces unnecessary medication, ensures rapid resolution of symptoms, and prevents reinfestation by confirming the specific parasite involved.

Treatment Protocol for Ear Mites

Veterinary-Prescribed Medications

Topical Treatments

Topical medications are the primary method for eliminating ear mites in felines. Products containing pyrethrins, selamectin, or ivermectin are formulated for direct application into the ear canal.

Choose a preparation labeled for cats; avoid formulations intended for dogs or humans.
Clean the ear gently with a veterinarian‑approved solution to remove debris before applying the drug.
Administer the exact dose recommended on the product label or by the veterinarian; overdosing can cause neurotoxicity.
Distribute the medication evenly across the ear canal by massaging the base of the ear for 30 seconds after instillation.

Effectiveness is typically observed within 48 hours, with complete eradication requiring two to three applications spaced one week apart. Monitor the cat for signs of irritation, excessive scratching, or discharge; discontinue use and seek professional advice if adverse reactions occur.

In cases of severe infestation, combine topical therapy with systemic treatment as directed by a veterinarian to ensure comprehensive control and prevent reinfestation. Regular ear examinations after treatment confirm resolution and help maintain ear health.

Oral Medications

When ear mites are diagnosed in a cat, oral antiparasitic agents provide systemic control that complements topical therapy. These drugs reach the mite population through the bloodstream, ensuring eradication from the ear canal and preventing reinfestation.

Ivermectin (dose 0.2 mg/kg, once daily for three days) – effective against Otodectes cynotis; requires careful dosing in breeds sensitive to the compound.
Selamectin (dose 6 mg/kg, administered orally or topically, repeat after one month) – broad‑spectrum, convenient single‑dose regimen.
Milbemycin oxime (dose 0.5 mg/kg, single oral dose) – useful when concurrent heartworm or intestinal parasite prevention is needed.

Select the medication based on the cat’s weight, age, health status, and any breed‑specific sensitivities. Confirm dosage with a veterinarian, monitor for adverse reactions such as vomiting or lethargy, and complete the full treatment course even if symptoms improve early. Combining oral therapy with thorough ear cleaning maximizes the likelihood of complete mite elimination.

Injections

If an ear mite infestation is confirmed, a veterinarian may recommend an injectable antiparasitic to eliminate the parasites systemically. Injectable products deliver medication directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid distribution to the ear canal and surrounding tissues, which can be more effective than topical drops alone.

Common injectable agents include:

Ivermectin: administered at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg, repeated after 2–3 weeks to break the mite life cycle.
Selamectin: given at 6 mg/kg, provides broad‑spectrum protection against mites, fleas, and heartworms.
Milbemycin oxime: dosed at 0.5 mg/kg, useful for cats with concurrent parasite burdens.

The veterinarian will calculate the exact dose based on the cat’s weight, assess potential drug interactions, and monitor for adverse reactions such as hypersensitivity or neurologic signs. After injection, re‑examination of the ears is typically scheduled within 7–10 days to confirm parasite clearance and to address any secondary inflammation.

Injectable therapy complements ear cleaning and environmental control, reducing the risk of reinfestation and supporting overall feline health.

Cleaning the Ears

Proper Technique

When ear mites are discovered in a cat, immediate action prevents discomfort and secondary infection. The following procedure outlines the correct method for safe and effective treatment.

Restrain the animal gently but securely; a second person may assist to hold the cat while the primary handler works.
Examine the ear canal with a bright light. Look for dark debris, wax, or a gritty sensation that confirms the presence of mites.
Clean the outer ear using a soft cloth dampened with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser. Avoid inserting any material deep into the canal.
Apply a few drops of a prescribed acaricidal solution directly into the ear canal, following the dosage instructions on the label. Allow the solution to coat the interior for the recommended time.
Massage the base of the ear for 30–60 seconds to distribute the medication evenly.
Wipe excess fluid from the ear opening with a clean gauze pad. Do not reuse the same pad on the opposite ear.
Repeat the treatment on the second ear, using a fresh pad and the same dosage.
Schedule a follow‑up examination within one to two weeks to confirm eradication and to address any residual inflammation.

Throughout the process, wear disposable gloves, keep the work area clean, and dispose of used materials safely. If the cat shows signs of severe irritation, discharge, or pain, consult a veterinarian before continuing. Proper technique reduces the risk of complications and restores ear health efficiently.

Treating All Household Pets

Preventing Reinfestation

Treat the cat promptly, then focus on eliminating sources that could re‑introduce the parasites.

Clean the household thoroughly: vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery; discard or wash all bedding, towels, and blankets in hot water.
Treat every animal in the home, even if they show no symptoms; ear mite infestations spread quickly among pets.
Apply a veterinarian‑recommended monthly preventive (e.g., topical acaricide or oral medication) to maintain protection.
Keep the cat’s living area dry and free of excess moisture, which encourages mite survival.
Schedule a follow‑up examination to confirm that the infestation is fully resolved and to adjust preventive measures if needed.

Consistent hygiene, comprehensive treatment of all co‑habiting animals, and regular preventive medication together minimize the risk of a renewed ear‑mite problem.

Preventing Future Infestations

Regular Ear Checks

Regular ear examinations become a critical component of managing a cat that has been diagnosed with ear mites. Consistent checks allow you to monitor treatment effectiveness, detect secondary infections early, and prevent reinfestation.

Perform an ear inspection at least once a week during the first two weeks of therapy, then reduce to bi‑weekly until the cat remains symptom‑free for a month. After that, a monthly review maintains long‑term health.

When examining the ear, follow these steps:

Gently restrain the cat; use a calm voice to reduce stress.
Hold the ear flap upright to expose the canal.
Use a bright, handheld light or a lamp to illuminate the interior.
Observe the ear walls for redness, swelling, or crusty debris.
Look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like particles, which indicate mite activity.
Smell for a strong, yeasty odor that often accompanies infestation.
If necessary, apply a small amount of a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaning solution to the canal, allowing it to soften debris before wiping with a soft gauze pad.

Record findings after each session: date, visual observations, any discharge, and the cat’s reaction. Share this log with your veterinarian to adjust medication dosages or switch treatments if progress stalls.

Regular ear checks, performed methodically and documented accurately, provide the feedback loop required to eradicate ear mites and preserve the cat’s auditory health.

Maintaining Good Hygiene

When ear mites are detected, immediate sanitary measures reduce reinfestation and support treatment effectiveness.

Clean the cat’s ears with a veterinarian‑approved solution. Apply the liquid to a cotton ball, not directly into the canal, and wipe away debris. Repeat according to the product instructions, typically twice daily for several days.

Sanitize the surrounding environment:

Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water; dry on high heat.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard vacuum bags or empty the canister immediately.
Disinfect hard surfaces (e.g., floors, countertops) with a pet‑safe disinfectant.

Maintain routine grooming:

Brush the cat’s coat regularly to remove loose fur and prevent mite migration.
Inspect other pets for signs of infestation; treat concurrently if necessary.

Implement preventive hygiene:

Schedule regular ear examinations during veterinary visits.
Use recommended ear cleaning products on a weekly basis to keep the ear canal clear of wax and debris.

Consistent hygiene practices limit mite survival outside the host and create a healthier environment for the cat’s recovery.

Avoiding Contact with Infected Animals

Ear mites are highly contagious among felines; direct contact with an infested cat can spread the parasites to other pets. Limit exposure by isolating the affected animal in a separate room until treatment is complete. Keep doors, bedding, toys, and grooming tools exclusive to the infected cat; do not share these items with healthy animals.

To protect uninfected companions, follow these practical measures:

Confine the sick cat in a designated quarantine area with its own food, water, and litter box.
Wash all fabrics, blankets, and cushions from the quarantine space using hot water and a dryer on high heat.
Disinfect surfaces, cages, and grooming equipment with a veterinary‑approved antiseptic.
Restrict visitors who have contact with other cats; advise them to wash hands thoroughly before and after handling the quarantined pet.
Monitor other cats for signs of irritation, excessive scratching, or dark debris in the ears; seek veterinary evaluation promptly if symptoms appear.

By maintaining strict separation and thorough sanitation, the risk of transmission to other cats is minimized, allowing the affected animal to recover without endangering the broader household.