Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites in cats is a serious condition that requires veterinary intervention. Do you know how to spot it? Cats are notorious for hiding signs of weakness. This is a biological tool they use to protect themselves in the wild, but it makes it hard for owners to tell when they aren’t feeling their best. This is one reason why it’s so important to take them in for regular veterinary wellness visits. Certain conditions do have noticeable symptoms, however. Here’s what ear mites are and how to spot them.
What Are Ear Mites in Cats?
Ear mites are very small parasites that can crawl into a cat’s ear. Once inside, the ear becomes a breeding ground for the parasite, and soon your cat will be dealing with multiple ear mites that cause discomfort. Although these parasites are only about the size of a pinhead, the human eye can see them if they are scurrying along a cat’s back. If they crawl onto a cat’s body, the animal can usually groom them away before they can be a problem. Once the parasites reach the ear, your kitty will need a little help to get rid of them. Ear mites are very contagious, so if one cat in a multi-cat household is infested, all cats will likely follow suit. Ear mites can typically be transmitted from the following:
- Other animals
- Contaminated materials like bedding or grooming tools
- Environments where animals are in close proximity
Signs of Feline Ear Mites
While you might not be able to see the ear mites once they’ve entered your cat’s ear, there are obvious signs that something is amiss inside the organ. Cats with ear mites will often have:
- Inflammation in or around the outer ear
- An ear flattened against the head
- The urge to constantly scratch the ear
- A desire to shake the head regularly
- An abundance of dark-colored wax or debris in the ear that has a foul odor
If you notice any of the above or any significant changes in behavior, it is essential to get your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible to start treatment.
The Dangers of Ear Mites in Cats
Since cats with ear mites scratch more to try to get rid of the discomfort, they are at a higher risk of developing infections from this persistent scratching. Without treatment, ear mites can also lead to a disease called otitis externa. This infection starts in the outer ear but can make its way into the eardrum and cause permanent hearing damage. Cats who experience hearing loss might also lose their ability to balance.
Treatment for Ear Mites
Luckily, veterinarians can successfully treat ear mites in cats. After a thorough cleansing of the ear canal to remove the wax buildup, there are a variety of effective topical, oral, and systemic treatments. Once the mites are cleared, the cat will need periodic monitoring to make sure no new ones have returned.
Union Lake Veterinary Hospital is here to help with all your pet ailments. From ear mites to teeth cleaning, we offer the services you need to keep your pets in optimal health throughout their lives. To learn more about our services or to schedule a wellness check, please call (248) 363-1508