Ear Mites in Cats

Cat ear mites are tiny, crawling parasites that love to live in the ears of cats and other mammals, including dogs. In rare cases, they can also be passed on to humans! Their scientific name is Otodectes cynotis and they are from a family of non-burrowing surface mites that feed on dead skin and ear wax deep within the ear canal. It’s reported that these little creepy crawlies are responsible for almost all ear infections in cats and if left untreated, they can cause serious damage.

Ear mites are highly contagious and move easily from cat to cat, crawling through the fur on their journey to the ear. They are most common in kittens, however, cats of any age and breed can become infested. Cats that live outdoors, and those in contact with other cats are most at risk, but this does not mean your indoor moggy is safe! Mites can hitch a ride on other creatures, including you, and enter the home. As a pet parent, it’s important to be able to recognise the signs of ear mites and act quickly.

Ear mites are fast and always on the move, making your cat exquisitely itchy and irritated. The most common signs and symptoms of ear mites in cats include:

Early-stage ear mites can be tricky to recognise, but the above clues can tell you something is not quite right with your cat. When you first notice the signs, it’s important to seek veterinary assistance.

As the infection progresses your cat may start to feel unwell and become lethargic and in appetent. Most seriously, neurological signs, such as balance issues, head tilt, and abnormal, uncoordinated movement can occur in if the inner ear is affected.

Most commonly, cats are presented to the vet as their pet parents are worried about smelly ears or excessive scratching. You may think your cat has an ear infection.  If you are lucky enough to see one, cat ear mites can sometimes be mistaken for fleas, although they are much, much smaller. The clue is that fleas love to live around the back of your cat, and mites always head for the deep dark ear canals.

Although ear mites in cats are common, they are easily prevented, and treated, with products available over the counter.

Without treatment, inflamed and irritated ears can become infected, leading to serious complications such as permanent damage to the internal structures of the ear. If your cat has smelly, painful ears it is recommended that they be examined by your vet before attempting to treat at home.

Treating cats for ear mites has never been easier, with ear mite drops such as Otodex ear drops and Ear canker drops allowing simple, effective treatment at home. Remember to only use these products externally, prevent your cat from licking, and if symptoms persist make sure your moggy is examined by your veterinarian right away. 

At the clinic, vets will perform a thorough ear exam to make sure there are no other diseases or foreign materials present in the ear. Samples will be taken to check for infection and identify mites, and the ear canal will be given a good clean before dispensing medications to resolve your cat's symptoms.

Remember that prevention is always better than treatment! By keeping up with your cat’s regular parasite prevention medicine you can protect them from ear mites in the first place.
Have a chat with your friendly Jollyes vet to choose the right product for you and your moggy.

Cat ear mites are a common parasite affecting our feline friends. Prevention and treatment are straightforward if caught early, however, without treatment ear mites in cats can lead to serious disease. Luckily, with our cat and kitten range it’s never been easier to keep your kitty purring all day long. Check out our range, in-store or online.