How to check for ear mites in a cat? - briefly
Examine the ear canal by lifting the flap and using a light to look for dark, grain‑like debris, a strong waxy odor, and any visible tiny moving organisms. If such signs are present, seek veterinary confirmation and treatment promptly.
How to check for ear mites in a cat? - in detail
Ear mites are tiny parasites that reside in the external ear canal of felines. Early detection prevents irritation, secondary infections, and discomfort. The following procedure outlines a systematic examination.
First, observe the cat’s behavior. Frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, or rubbing the face against objects often signals an infestation. Next, inspect the outer ear for redness, swelling, or a dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds. This material typically contains the mites, their eggs, and excrement.
To examine the canal more closely, gently lift the pinna and use a soft, dim light source. Hold a clean cotton ball or gauze pad against the ear opening and apply a small amount of a feline‑safe ear cleaning solution if the ear appears clogged. Avoid deep insertion; the goal is to visualize rather than manipulate the canal.
Collect a sample for microscopic evaluation:
- Moisten a fresh cotton swab with saline or the cleaning solution.
- Rotate the swab against the visible debris for a few seconds.
- Place the swab on a glass slide, add a drop of mineral oil, and cover with a cover slip.
- Examine under low‑power magnification (10–40×). Live, moving oval bodies or characteristic crescent‑shaped eggs confirm the presence of ear mites.
If microscopic confirmation is not feasible, a veterinarian can perform otoscopic examination and cytology. Laboratory analysis provides definitive identification and guides appropriate treatment.
Finally, document findings, note any concurrent skin lesions, and initiate treatment promptly to alleviate inflammation and eliminate the parasites. Regular ear checks during routine health visits reduce the risk of recurrence.