How is ear mite transmitted in cats? - briefly
Ear mites spread primarily through direct contact with an infested cat—grooming, fighting, or mother‑to‑kitten transmission—and can be transferred briefly via contaminated bedding or grooming tools. Indirect spread is limited because the parasites survive only a short time off the host.
How is ear mite transmitted in cats? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) spread among felines primarily through direct contact. When an infested cat scratches or rubs its ears, mites transfer to the skin surface of another animal that touches the same area. Mother‑to‑kitten transmission occurs during nursing or close grooming, allowing mites to colonize newborns within the first weeks of life.
Indirect routes involve contaminated environments. Mites can survive for several days off the host, especially in warm, humid conditions. Shared bedding, grooming tools, carriers, or litter boxes that have been in contact with an infested cat may harbor viable mites, providing a source of infection for other cats that use the same items.
Fleas and other ectoparasites can act as mechanical carriers. Mites may attach to a flea’s body and be deposited onto a new host during a flea bite, although this pathway is less common than direct contact.
High‑density settings such as shelters, catteries, or multi‑cat households increase transmission risk because frequent close interactions and shared resources create multiple opportunities for mite exchange.
Key factors influencing spread:
- Close physical contact (grooming, fighting, mating)
- Maternal care of kittens
- Shared objects (bedding, toys, brushes) that retain moisture
- Environmental conditions that support mite survival (temperature > 20 °C, humidity > 50 %)
- Presence of other ectoparasites that can transport mites
Preventing transmission requires isolating affected individuals, thorough cleaning of all shared items with hot water and detergent, and regular environmental disinfection. Routine veterinary examinations and prompt treatment of any detected infestation reduce the likelihood of further spread within a cat population.