Alcohol & Peroxide Home Remedy for Ear Mites in Cats

Ear mites are extremely contagious and responsible for 50 percent of all ear infections found in cats. Although ear mites can plague different species of domesticated animals, felines that spend time outdoors are more at risk for infestation, as well as kittens. If left untreated, ear mite infestations may lead to costly veterinarian visits that can be prevented with routine care giving. Alcohol and peroxide are inexpensive household items that can be used for relieving symptoms and treating ear mites.

  1. Symptoms

    • The most common type of ear mites found in domestic pets is the Otodectes cynotis, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. These ear mites feed on the cat's earwax and natural oils inside the ear canal. Ear mites are almost microscopic but can be detected by the coffee-groundlike debris they leave behind on earwax buildup. Other symptoms may include shaking of the head and excessive scratching at the ear. A strong odor and inflammation may accompany symptoms.

    Complications

    • The blood vessels that are located inside of the cat's ears may rupture with excessive scratching and head shaking to relieve itching. An aural hematoma can result from a ruptured blood vessel and usually needs corrective surgery. Skin infections are another complication associated with untreated ear mites. Sores develop from parasitic infestation and scratching, which then become exposed to bacteria and debris left behind by the parasites.

    Cleaning

    • The cat's ears should be cleaned out before applying treatments. Pull on protective gloves and mix together equal parts of alcohol and peroxide. Use a medicine dropper to draw up the mixture and firmly hold the cat by its chest. Administer several drops into the cat's ear and use your fingers to slowly massage the ear to break up the debris. Insert a cotton ball into the ear and twist out to remove debris and wax buildup. Set up a routine to clean out the cat's ears regularly to check for ear mites.

    Treatment

    • Crush four cloves of garlic and place into one cup of olive oil. Let the oil mixture sit overnight and then remove the garlic. Place the cup of oil into a bowl of hot water and remove when the oil is lukewarm. Use the medicine dropper to administer several drops into the cat's infected ears every day for four weeks. Clean the cat's bedding and other items that it uses regularly, such as blankets and pillows.