What is an ear mite in cats? - briefly
Ear mites are microscopic parasites, most commonly Otodectes cynotis, that live in a cat’s external ear canal, causing irritation, inflammation, and a dark, waxy debris. They spread by direct contact and can be eliminated with topical acaricidal treatments.
What is an ear mite in cats? - in detail
Ear mites are microscopic, wingless parasites that inhabit the external auditory canal of felines. The most common species, Otodectes cynotis, feeds on earwax and skin debris, causing irritation and inflammation.
The life cycle lasts approximately three weeks. Adult mites lay eggs on the ear surface; eggs hatch into larvae within three to four days, develop into nymphs, and mature into reproductive adults. Infestation spreads through direct contact with an infected animal or shared grooming tools.
Typical clinical signs include frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, dark brown to black crusty debris resembling coffee grounds, and redness or swelling of the ear canal. In severe cases, secondary bacterial or fungal infections may develop.
Diagnosis relies on visual examination of the ear canal using an otoscope or a bright light. Microscopic evaluation of the debris confirms the presence of adult mites, larvae, and eggs.
Effective treatment options are:
- Topical acaricidal medications (e.g., selamectin, moxidectin, or pyrethrin‑based ear drops) applied according to label instructions.
- Systemic ivermectin or milbemycin administered orally or by injection for multi‑site infestations.
- Thorough cleaning of the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved solution before applying medication to enhance drug penetration.
- Re‑treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched mites and prevent reinfestation.
Prevention strategies include regular ear inspections during routine veterinary visits, maintaining a clean environment, and applying monthly preventive ectoparasitic treatments to all household cats, especially those with outdoor access or exposure to other animals.