Back to Disease DictionarySkin

Ear Mites in Cats

Parasitic infection of the ear canal by Otodectes cynotis mites. Characterized by intense itching and dark brown ear discharge, most common in kittens.

Vet Supervised

Symptoms

  • Intense ear itching
  • Head shaking
  • Dark brown ear discharge
  • Scratches around ears
  • Foul ear odor

Related Symptom Pages

Causes

  • Otodectes cynotis mite infection
  • Contact with infected cats
  • Outdoor exposure

Diagnosis

1

Otoscopic examination

2

Microscopic examination of ear discharge

3

Direct mite visualization

Treatment

  • Ear cleaning
  • Antiparasitic drugs (selamectin, ivermectin)
  • Spot-on treatments
  • Antibiotics for secondary infections

Prognosis

Complete cure expected with proper treatment. All animals in the household must be treated simultaneously.

Severity: Low

Prevention

  • Regular antiparasitic treatment
  • Examination of new cats
  • Regular ear checks
  • Hygiene in multi-cat environments

Epidemiology

Age Range

Most common in kittens and young cats

Prevalence

Approximately 50% of kittens are infected at least once

CatsMe

Перевірте здоров'я вашої кішки з CatsMe

ШІ аналізує здоров'я вашої кішки за одним фото. Відстежуйте здоров'я щодня, щоб помітити зміни вчасно.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play