Ear mites are tiny, eight-legged arthropods that live in a cat's ear and feed on ear wax. They can infect dogs, but are much more common in cats. Any cat can get them, but kittens are particularly susceptible. Ear mites are typically too small to be seen by the naked eye, so symptoms of an infestation are the most common alerts to their presence. See your veterinarian if your cat frequently shakes its head or scratches its ears, has a black, brown or coffee ground-like secretion from its ears, or has hair loss, strong odor, scratches or scabs in its ears.
Things You'll Need
- Nothing tangible
Instructions
How to Get Rid of Ear Mites in Cats
Take your cat to your veterinarian. There are two reasons for this. First, certain bacterial infections cause the same symptoms. Second, over-the-counter treatments rarely work and do not address any infection that may have been caused by the cat scratching itself.
Follow your veterinarian's instructions precisely and give all prescribed medication. As with antibiotics, your cat will start feeling better soon after beginning treatment, but all of the medication must be given to prevent the ear mites from coming right back. Remember, ear mites have a three-week life cycle.
Thoroughly wash or clean your cat's bedding. This will prevent your cat from becoming reinfected by ear mites that might be living in its bedding.