What signs indicate a cat has an ear mite? - briefly
Look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris, frequent scratching or head shaking, a strong odor, and redness or swelling inside the ear canal.
What signs indicate a cat has an ear mite? - in detail
Ear mites are microscopic parasites that inhabit the ear canal of cats, producing a range of observable symptoms. Recognizing these signs early prevents discomfort, secondary infections, and long‑term damage to the auditory tissue.
Typical manifestations include:
- Dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds that accumulates in the ear canal and on the outer ear.
- Intense scratching or pawing at the ears, often accompanied by head shaking.
- Redness or inflammation of the ear canal walls, sometimes visible as a pink or swollen lining.
- A foul, yeasty odor emanating from the ear, caused by the combination of mite waste and secondary bacterial growth.
- Excessive wax production, leading to a thickened, opaque ear canal that may be difficult to see through.
- Visible movement of tiny, white or translucent organisms when the ear is examined with a light source or magnifier.
In advanced cases, the following may appear:
- Secondary bacterial or fungal infection, indicated by yellowish or purulent discharge and increased swelling.
- Hair loss around the ears due to chronic irritation and self‑trauma.
- Behavioral changes such as irritability or reduced appetite, resulting from persistent discomfort.
A thorough otoscopic examination confirms the presence of the parasites. Prompt treatment with appropriate topical acaricides eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of complications. Regular ear cleaning and routine veterinary check‑ups help maintain ear health and detect re‑infestation early.