Feline Mites and Lice

Mites and lice affect both indoor and outdoor cats. Feline lice and ear mites cannot be transmitted to humans. However, other mites may temporarily infect humans.

  1. Identification

    • Lice are flat, parasitic insects that are visible to the naked eye. Mites, however, require a microscope for positive identification.

    Transmission

    • Lice are transmitted by direct contact between infected felines. However, mites actively seek out new hosts and can move through the environment without direct contact to another cat.

    Lice Symptoms

    • The most common symptoms of feline lice are a dry, scruffy coat and itching. In severe cases, hair loss may result from intense itching and an excessive population may lead to anemia.

    Symptoms of Mites

    • Ear mites may cause itching of the ears or shaking of the head, accompanied by dried blood present in the ear canal. Other types of feline mites may cause itching, dandruff, hair loss and thickened or crusty skin.

    Treating Feline Lice

    • Treating feline lice involves a shampoo containing pyrethrin followed by a pyrethrin spray or powder once the cat's fur is fully dry.

    Feline Mite Treatments

    • Ear mites are treated using over-the-counter or prescription ear mite medication that is applied as recommended by the veterinarian. Mange mites are treated with either a medicated shampoo or dip and will require several treatments to fully kill off all mites.