Ear Mites
Cats get ear mites, which are small spider-like parasites. Untreated, they can cause discomfort, infection, and hair loss (from scratching). Ear mites are little parasites that dwell predominantly in the ear canal. Ear mites irritate the ear canal by feeding on epidermal and tissue fluid.
Ear mites are a typical concern in kittens. During her adult life, the female ear mite lays roughly five eggs per day. Uncontrolled breeding of these tiny parasites can cause serious damage to your cat’s ear if not removed soon. In addition, ear mites are contagious, jumping from cat to cat and eventually into the ear.
Animals like cats, dogs, and rabbits are susceptible to ear mite infestations. Ear mites are highly contagious and can be spread from cat to cat. Symptoms include ear scratching, head movement, or a tilted head.
Ear mites can cause ear canal obstructions, and blood vessel ruptures in cats, necessitating surgery. Cats with ear mites often become deaf, unable to walk or talk, and uninterested in food. In addition, they can cause significant ear discomfort.
Diagnosing Ear Mites in Cats
Your vet will use a microscope or a magnifying scope to look for the small, white bugs that are hard to spot. The presence of ear mites in a sample of ear discharge examined under a microscope confirms the diagnosis.
The key to treating ear mites is a clean ear canal.
Effective Against Ear Infections, Ear Mites, Itchy Ears, and Ear Odors
Cat Ear Mites Home Remedies
Home treatments can be beneficial if identified early. There are a few possibilities, but you should consult a veterinarian if you’re unsure.
- Apple cider vinegar’s antibacterial and antifungal qualities help treat ear mite infestations.
- You might also use a cotton ball dipped in mineral oil to clean the ears.
Can Humans Get Ear Mites from a cat?
Ear mites need a host to survive, so it’s not uncommon for mites to hop from animal to animal and person to person. If your pet has ear mites, these mites can travel to your bedding and furniture and then attach themselves to you.
Prevent outdoor roaming of cats and treat your cats year-round and throughout their life with tick control products.