How does an ear mite live on cats? - briefly
Ear mites inhabit the ear canal, feeding on wax, skin debris, and secretions while laying eggs that hatch within a few days. The larvae spread to other cats through direct contact or shared grooming tools.
How does an ear mite live on cats? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are obligate ectoparasites that complete their entire life cycle on a feline host. Adult females deposit 2–5 eggs per day into the ear canal, where the warm, humid environment protects them from desiccation. Eggs hatch within 3–4 days, releasing six-legged larvae that immediately begin feeding on ear wax, debris, and skin secretions.
The larvae develop into eight-legged nymphs after approximately 5–7 days. During this stage, they continue to consume cerumen and proliferate bacterial growth, which causes inflammation. After another 5–7 days, nymphs molt into mature adults. The full cycle—from egg to reproductive adult—takes about 2–3 weeks under optimal conditions.
Adult mites reside primarily in the external auditory meatus, attaching to the epithelium with hooked claws. They reproduce continuously, maintaining a stable population as long as the cat’s ears provide sufficient moisture and warmth. Mites move laterally across the ear canal, occasionally venturing onto the surrounding hair and skin, where they can be transferred to other animals through direct contact.
Key biological features that support survival:
- Temperature tolerance: Optimal range 35–38 °C; the cat’s body heat sustains development.
- Moisture dependence: Cerumen supplies both hydration and a food source.
- Rapid reproduction: Females lay eggs daily, ensuring population persistence.
- Mobility: Hooked legs allow migration within the ear and between hosts.
The life cycle concludes when the host’s immune response or external treatment eliminates the mites, interrupting egg laying and causing the population to decline. Without intervention, the infestation can persist indefinitely, leading to chronic otitis and secondary infections.