How to Cure Cat Ear Mites

Ear mites, or Otodectes cynotis, are small parasites that infect a cat's ears and can cause excessive scratching and irritation of the ear canals and a foul odor. The final diagnosis of ear mites should be made by a veterinarian. He can prescribe medication that can be administered at home to eliminate the presence of the mites.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubber gloves
  • Towel
  • Cotton balls
  • Water
  • Cotton swabs
  • Cat treats
  • Ear mite medication
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Instructions

  1. Clean the Ears

    • 1

      With gloved hands, hold the cat to keep it from escaping. If the cat is resisting the process, wrap it in a towel to hold it more effectively, and to protect yourself from being scratched.

    • 2

      Soak a cotton ball with water. Lift the cat's ear flap, if necessary, and wipe around the ear canal. This will remove any larger chunks of debris and mites from the ear. Repeat this process on the second ear. Dispose of the cotton balls immediately.

    • 3

      Soak a cotton swab with water. Clean any hard to reach areas, such as the grooves of the cartilage. Do not place the cotton swab into the ear canal itself. This could cause ear damage.

    • 4

      Give your cat a treat for enduring the cleaning process.

    Ear Medication Placement

    • 5

      Remove the cap from the medication before holding the cat. This will make administering the medication more efficient.

    • 6

      Wrap the cat in a towel and hold it with one arm. With gloved hands, gently pull the cat's ear out to expose the ear canal. Offer the cat a treat if it is violently attempting to run. This will distract the cat while the medication is being placed in the ear.

    • 7

      Place a few drops of the medication into the cat's ear. Rub the base of the ear with the thumb and index finger to work the medication deep into the ear canal.

    • 8

      Hold the cat in the opposite arm and repeat the process. Perform this procedure once a day, or as directed by the veterinarian.