What does ear mite infestation lead to in cats? - briefly
Ear mite infestation causes intense itching, inflammation, and the accumulation of dark, waxy debris in the ear canal. If left untreated, it can lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections and damage to ear tissue.
What does ear mite infestation lead to in cats? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in felines triggers a cascade of pathological changes within the external auditory canal. The parasites, primarily «Otodectes cynotis», attach to the ear skin, feeding on tissue fluids and debris. Their activity induces intense irritation, leading to erythema and edema of the canal walls. Persistent inflammation promotes excessive cerumen production, which mixes with mite debris to form a dark, waxy discharge often described as “ear crust”.
The primary clinical outcomes include:
- Pruritus causing frequent head shaking and scratching of the ears.
- Progressive thickening of the ear canal skin, which may develop hyperkeratosis and fissures.
- Secondary bacterial or fungal infections, facilitated by the disrupted skin barrier and accumulated debris.
- Conductive hearing loss resulting from canal obstruction and tissue swelling.
- Hair loss and skin lesions around the pinna due to chronic scratching.
- Behavioral alterations such as irritability or reduced activity, linked to discomfort and auditory impairment.
If left untreated, chronic otitis externa can evolve into more severe conditions, including tympanic membrane perforation and middle‑ear involvement (otitis media). Damage to the tympanic membrane may impair balance and further deteriorate auditory function. In extreme cases, systemic effects such as anemia or hypoalbuminemia have been reported, reflecting the parasite’s blood‑feeding behavior and the cat’s overall physiological stress.
Accurate diagnosis relies on microscopic examination of ear swabs to identify the characteristic oval mites and their eggs. Prompt therapeutic intervention—topical acaricides combined with anti‑inflammatory agents—halts the infestation, reduces inflammation, and prevents the progression to secondary infections and permanent auditory damage. Regular follow‑up examinations ensure complete eradication and allow monitoring for potential complications.