Ear Mites in Cat (Otodectic Cynotis Mange)"Ear mites in cat is the most common form of feline mage. It is caused by a parasite called a mite that lives on the surface of the ear. Common symptoms are itching, oozing from the ear and shaking the head. Treatment is with a topical ointmentapplied to the ear to kill the mites." Mange is caused by two types of mites, those that burrow under the skin and others that impact the surface of the skin. Otodectes cynotis (ear mange) is a nonburrowing ear mite that lives by eating skin debris. This condition is spread through direct contact between two animals. The ear mite irritates the skin by excreting toxins that irritate the ear.and cause the ear canal to become inflamed. For more extreme cases the ear produces a fluid or waxy substance that causes bacterial and fungal infections to develop. Mites could spread to the feet, face, neck, and tail. Adult mites can survive on your cat for several weeks. Otodectic mange is highly contagious. Cats with the condition should not be near other animals. Also the area where you cat lives should be thoroughly cleaned to avoid reinfection. Humans infections are rare. Symptoms of Ear Mites in CatSymptoms of ear mite infestation include:* Shaking and/or leaning of the head If infection occurs it can spread to the head and neck causing additional areas with red skin, crusty skin and scaling. Diagnosis of Ear MitesYour veterinarian will use a device called an otoscope to look into the ear or will take a sample of any ear discharge with an ear swab. When magnified your veterinarian will be able to see the mites.Treatment of Ear Mites in CatThe first step in treatment is to clean the ears. Your veterinarian will use a topical medication that is applied to the ear canal such as ACAREXX™ which contains the miticide ivermectin. Other treatments include MilbeMite™ which helps to prevent the mite infestation from reoccuring.Revolution (Selamectin) is also recommended and is applied twice to the skin at 30 day intervals. It is applied topically in single spot on neck in front of shoulders as you would apply for flea control. Be sure to clean the area where your cat lives to avoid a repeat infestation of the ear. SourcesExternal Parasitic Diseases of Dogs and CatsP.A. Payne1, M. W. Dryden and G.R. Carter Department of Diagnostic Medicine-Pathobiology College of Veterinary Medicine Kansas State University From Ear MItes in Cat to More on Cat Mange To Cat Health Guide Home Page
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