How does an ear mite look in cats and how should it be treated? - briefly
Ear mites appear as tiny, dark, moving specks resembling grain of sand or pinheads at the base of the ear canal, often surrounded by dark, waxy debris and a strong odor. Effective control involves cleaning the ears with a veterinarian‑approved solution and applying a prescribed topical acaricide, such as selamectin or ivermectin, followed by a repeat dose according to the product’s schedule.
How does an ear mite look in cats and how should it be treated? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are microscopic parasites about 0.2–0.35 mm long, oval‑shaped, and translucent. Their bodies contain three pairs of legs near the front, giving a slightly flattened appearance. Under magnification they resemble tiny, pale specks that move rapidly on the ear canal surface. Heavy infestations produce a dense, dark debris composed of mite bodies, eggs, and wax, often described as a coffee‑ground or black‑grainy material.
Clinical signs include intense scratching, head shaking, and a noticeable odor. The ear canal may appear reddened, inflamed, and filled with the characteristic debris. Diagnosis is confirmed by otoscopic examination or by collecting a sample of the crust and observing mites on a microscope slide.
Treatment protocol:
- Cleaning – Flush each ear with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to remove wax and debris. Gently massage the base of the ear to dislodge particles, then wipe excess fluid with a cotton ball.
- Topical acaricide – Apply a single dose of a licensed product containing selamectin, milbemycin oxime, or a pyrethrin‑based formulation. Follow manufacturer instructions for dosage based on the cat’s weight.
- Repeat application – Administer a second dose 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched mites, as the life cycle lasts approximately 10 days.
- Environmental control – Wash bedding, blankets, and grooming tools in hot water; vacuum carpets and upholstery to reduce residual eggs and larvae.
- Systemic medication (optional) – For severe or recurrent cases, oral ivermectin or milbemycin can be prescribed to provide systemic coverage.
Monitoring: Re‑examine the ears 2 weeks after the final treatment. Absence of debris and normal ear canal appearance indicate successful eradication. Persistent irritation warrants a follow‑up visit to rule out secondary bacterial or fungal infection.