How can you tell if a cat has an ear mite? - briefly
Look for dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds in the ear canal, often with a strong odor. Additional signs include frequent head shaking, ear‑scratching, and inflammation or redness of the ear lining.
How can you tell if a cat has an ear mite? - in detail
Ear mite infestation is a frequent cause of ear problems in felines. The parasite lives in the ear canal, feeding on wax and skin debris, which creates a distinct set of clinical signs.
Visible signs include:
- Dark, coffee‑ground‑like crusts lining the inner ear surface;
- Accumulation of yellowish or blackish debris that may smear when the ear is cleaned;
- Redness or inflammation of the ear canal walls.
Behavioral indicators consist of:
- Frequent head shaking or tilting toward the affected side;
- Persistent scratching of the ears with paws;
- Vocalization of discomfort during grooming.
A thorough examination requires an otoscope or a handheld light source. The clinician should gently lift the ear flap, observe the canal, and note any excess wax, debris, or irritation. If suspicion remains, a sample of the material can be collected on a cotton swab for microscopic analysis. Under low‑power magnification, the presence of moving oval‑shaped parasites or their eggs confirms infestation by the species «Otodectes cynotis».
Veterinary confirmation often involves a combination of visual inspection and laboratory identification. Treatment protocols typically include topical acaricides, systemic medications, and thorough cleaning of the ear canal to remove residual debris. Follow‑up examinations verify eradication and prevent reinfestation.