Ear mites in cats: tiny parasites that shouldn't be overlooked

  Ear mites in cats are one of the most common health problems in cats. Owners may notice abnormalities in their cats, such as frequent ear scratching or dark brown earwax. These symptoms are warning signs that your cat has ear mites. Today, Talingchan Animal Hospital will explain about ear mites in cats.

What are ear mites and where do they come from?

  Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are microscopic parasites that live in the ear canals of animals. They can be easily transmitted through contact with other cats, dogs, or other pets that already have ear mites, or through unsanitary environments.

  It is most commonly found in young cats, cats that like to play outside, or from mother cats to their kittens. 

What are the symptoms of ear mites in cats?

Cats with ear mites will display these symptoms:

  1. Itching and scratching
  2. Shaking or shaking the head from side to side
  3. Have black or dark brown earwax
  4. There is an odor in the ear.
  5. Red or swollen ears

How to treat ear mites in cats

The steps to treat ear mites in cats are as follows:

  1. Take them to see a veterinarian so that the doctor can diagnose the ear canal to see if there are ear mites or other underlying diseases, such as bacterial or fungal infections.
  2. After the veterinarian checks for ear mites, the doctor will prescribe ear drops or anti-parasitic medication to eliminate the mites. Owners must use the ear drops in conjunction with cleaning their pet’s ears.
  3. Clean the environment where your little one lives with a disinfectant.

How to prevent ear mites in cats

  • Avoid exposing your cat to other outdoor pets that are at risk.
  • Use anti-parasitic medication as advised by your veterinarian.
  • Keep your home and pet supplies clean.

Cautions

  Although ear mites in cats are not contagious to humans, if ear mites are left as a chronic problem, they can lead to complications such as middle ear infections. Therefore, if you notice any unusual symptoms, you should take your cat to see a veterinarian immediately.

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