What is ear mite in a cat? - briefly
Ear mites are tiny, parasitic arthropods that live inside a cat’s ear canal, feeding on wax and skin debris. Infestation leads to itching, inflammation and a dark, waxy discharge.
What is ear mite in a cat? - in detail
Ear mites are microscopic parasites that inhabit the external ear canal of felines. The most common species, Otodectes cynotis, feeds on ear wax and skin debris, causing irritation and inflammation. Infestation typically produces a dark, crumbly discharge that resembles coffee grounds, accompanied by frequent scratching of the ears and head shaking.
The life cycle of the mite spans approximately three weeks. Adult females lay eggs on the ear canal surface; eggs hatch within three to four days, releasing larvae that mature into nymphs and then adults. Because the entire cycle occurs on the host, reinfestation can happen quickly if treatment is incomplete.
Clinical signs vary with infestation intensity:
- Dark, waxy cerumen in the ear canal
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal lining
- Pruritus leading to self‑trauma
- Secondary bacterial or fungal infections from tissue damage
Diagnosis relies on otoscopic examination. A veterinarian will visualize live mites, eggs, or fecal pellets (scybala) within the ear canal. In ambiguous cases, a sample of ear debris can be examined under a microscope.
Effective treatment options include:
- Topical acaricides (e.g., selamectin, moxidectin, or pyrethrin‑based formulations) applied directly to the ear.
- Systemic medications (e.g., ivermectin, milbemycin oxime) that reach the mites through the bloodstream.
- Cleaning the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved solution to remove debris before medication application.
Treatment typically requires a single dose or a short series, depending on the product used. Follow‑up examinations confirm eradication and assess for residual inflammation or secondary infections, which may need additional antibiotics or antifungal agents.
Prevention strategies focus on eliminating sources of infestation. Regular ear cleaning, especially for cats with outdoor access or multi‑cat households, reduces mite buildup. Quarantine and treat new or rescued cats before integration with resident animals to avoid introduction of parasites.
Ear mite infestations are highly contagious among cats and can affect dogs, rabbits, and occasionally humans. Prompt identification and appropriate therapy prevent spread, alleviate discomfort, and protect overall ear health.