What are ear mites?

The ear mite (Otodectes cynotis) is a surface living mite that lives on cats, dogs, rabbits and
ferrets. It is usually found in the ear canal but it can also live on the skin surface. The entire ear
mite life cycle takes place on animals. Cats become infested by direct contact with an infested
animal. The mite is just visible to the naked eye and can be seen as a white speck moving
against a dark background.

What effect do ear mites have on cats?

Ear mites are the most common cause of feline ear disease. They are the second most common
ectoparasite found on cats; the most common is the flea. Infestations are most common in
kittens and young cats although cats of any age can be affected. Clinical signs of infestation
vary in severity from one cat to another and include combinations of:

•        Ear irritation causing scratching at the ears or head shaking

•        A dark waxy discharge from the ear

•        Areas of hair loss resulting from self-trauma - scratching or excessive grooming

•        A crusted rash

•        Aural hematoma - a large blood blister cause by rupture of small blood vessels between
the skin and cartilage of the ear usually on the inner aspect - caused by scratching at the ears

Skin lesions most frequently affect the ear and surrounding skin but uncommonly other areas of
the body may be affected.

How are ear mite infestations diagnosed?

Typical clinical signs with a history of contagion between cats or cats and dogs would suggest
the involvement of ear mites. Ear mites cause over 50% of feline ear disease. However other
conditions can result in very similar clinical signs.

A veterinarian makes the diagnosis by seeing the mite. This is usually straightforward and may
be done either by examination of the cat's ears with an otoscope or by microscopic examination
of discharge from the ear. If the ears are very sore, the cat may need to be sedated to allow the
ears to be properly examined and treated.

How can I get rid of ear mites from my cat?

Three steps are required to successfully treat ear mites:

•        Treat the ears of all affected and susceptible pets

•        Treat the skin of all affected and susceptible pets

•        Treat the indoor environment because the mite is capable of limited survival off pets

Your veterinarian will advise you about which insecticidal products are suitable. There are
several ear medications licensed for the treatment of ear mites. There are no products licensed
for use on the house or on an animal's skin but many products licensed for flea control are
effective.

Your veterinarian may ask you to continue the treatment regime for at least 21 days after which
he may check the cat to ensure that the mites have been eliminated.

Do ear mites affect people?

Ear mites may cause an itchy rash on susceptible people if there are infested pets in the
household. Eradication of the mites from the pets will cure the problem.
Ear Mites
This client information sheet is based on material written by Ernest E. Ward
Jr., DVM.
© Copyright 2002 Lifelearn Inc. Used with permission under license.
January 25, 2008.
763-689-0095
Cambridge VetCare Animal Clinic
Cambridge, MN
Clinic Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday - 8am - 12pm
Sunday - Closed