What should you do when a cat has ear mites? - briefly
Examine the ears for dark, crusty debris and confirm mites with a vet‑approved otoscopic exam, then clean the canal using a recommended ear cleanser and administer the prescribed acaricide, repeating the dose according to the medication schedule. Follow up with a second treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any remaining parasites.
What should you do when a cat has ear mites? - in detail
If a feline shows signs of ear mites—scratching, head shaking, dark debris in the ear canal—begin with a visual inspection. Look for a brownish, coffee‑ground‑like buildup and small, moving parasites. Confirm the diagnosis by gently pulling the ear flap back and examining the inner surface with a flashlight; the mites are often visible as tiny, translucent organisms.
Clean the affected ears before applying any treatment. Use a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser: fill the ear canal with the solution, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, then allow the cat to shake its head. Wipe away excess fluid and debris with a soft gauze pad. Do not insert cotton swabs, as they may damage the delicate skin.
Apply an appropriate acaricidal medication. Options include:
- Topical ear drops containing selamectin, milbemycin, or pyrethrin‑based formulations. Follow the label dosage based on the cat’s weight; typically one dose per ear, repeated after 7–10 days to break the mite life cycle.
- Spot‑on treatments applied to the skin at the nape of the neck; these distribute systemically and reach the ears. Ensure the product is labeled for ear mite control.
- Oral ivermectin or milbemycin prescribed by a veterinarian for severe infestations; dosage must be exact, and the drug is contraindicated in certain breeds.
After treatment, repeat the cleaning and medication schedule as directed, usually for three consecutive applications. Observe the cat for residual debris or continued scratching; persistent symptoms may indicate incomplete eradication or secondary infection.
Schedule a follow‑up veterinary exam within two weeks. The veterinarian can perform otoscopic examination, take ear swabs for microscopy, and prescribe antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory agents if bacterial infection or inflammation is present.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining regular ear hygiene, keeping the cat’s environment clean, and treating all household pets simultaneously, as ear mites readily spread among animals. Use preventive spot‑on products year‑round if the cat has outdoor access or lives in a multi‑pet household.