How can a cat become infected with ear mites? - briefly
Cats acquire ear mites through direct contact with infested animals or by exposure to contaminated bedding, grooming tools, or environments. The parasites transfer during grooming, fighting, or shared sleeping areas, leading to colonization of the ear canal.
How can a cat become infected with ear mites? - in detail
Ear mites (primarily Otodectes cynotis) are microscopic arthropods that live on the surface of the external ear canal, feeding on skin debris and ear wax. Their life cycle lasts about three weeks, during which eggs hatch into larvae, develop into nymphs, and mature into adult mites capable of reproducing.
Transmission occurs through several pathways:
- Direct contact with an infested animal. Mites crawl onto another cat during close physical interaction, such as fighting, grooming, or mating.
- Mother‑to‑kitten transfer during nursing or grooming in the first weeks of life. Newborns are highly susceptible because their immune system is not fully developed.
- Environmental exposure in contaminated bedding, grooming tools, or surfaces. Mites can survive off‑host for up to 10 days, allowing infection from previously occupied areas.
- Shared accessories such as collars, brushes, or carrier cages. Mites cling to these objects and move to a new host when the item is used again.
- Indirect contact via other species (e.g., dogs, ferrets) that can carry O. cynotis without showing symptoms, acting as temporary reservoirs.
Factors that increase the likelihood of acquisition include:
- High‑density housing (shelters, multi‑cat households).
- Lack of regular cleaning of sleeping areas and grooming equipment.
- Outdoor access where stray or feral cats are encountered.
- Immunosuppression caused by illness, stress, or poor nutrition.
Once on the ear canal, adult mites reproduce, laying eggs that hatch within 3–4 days. The resulting larvae and nymphs spread across the ear canal, causing irritation, inflammation, and secondary bacterial infection if left untreated. The cycle repeats rapidly, making early detection essential.