Ear Mites in Cats: Signs, Causes and Treatment Options

If your cat has been scratching at their ears nonstop or shaking their head more than usual, ear mites could be the reason. These microscopic parasites are a common cause of ear irritation in cats, and while they might be small, they can create a lot of discomfort. Cat ear mites are easy to spread but not always easy to spot at first, which can lead to lingering symptoms and even ear infections. Whether your cat spends time outdoors or lives strictly inside, they’re still at risk. In this blog, we’ll walk through what cat ear mites are, the signs to watch for, how they spread, and how veterinarians treat them—so you can take the right steps if your cat shows any symptoms.

What Are Cat Ear Mites?

Cat ear mites are microscopic parasites that live inside a cat’s ear canal. The most common type, Otodectes cynotis, feeds on the wax and oils in a cat’s ears, creating an irritating environment that leads to inflammation and infection. These mites spread easily, especially in multi-pet households or in outdoor environments where cats come into contact with each other.

While cats of any age can develop ear mites, kittens and younger cats are more susceptible due to their underdeveloped immune systems. Ear mites do not burrow into the skin like some parasites, but their presence still causes intense itching and secondary symptoms. Left untreated, cat ear mites can lead to more serious problems such as bacterial infections, hearing damage, and long-term discomfort. Early identification and professional treatment are key to preventing complications.

Signs of Ear Mites in Cats

Many pet owners notice behavioral changes before they realize what’s causing them. Cat ear mites can lead to several visible and behavioral symptoms that develop quickly. 

Excessive Scratching and Head Shaking

If your cat frequently scratches at their ears or shakes their head, ear mites might be the cause. The mites cause intense irritation, and your cat’s natural response is to try to relieve it. Unfortunately, this only increases the risk of self-inflicted injuries or secondary infections.

Dark, Crumbly Debris

One of the most distinctive signs of cat ear mites is a buildup of dark, dry debris that looks similar to coffee grounds. This material is a mix of ear wax, blood, and mite waste. It often has a strong odor and appears deep inside the ear canal or around the outer ear.

Redness and Inflammation

As the mites continue to irritate the ear canal, inflammation develops. You may notice redness, swelling, or even scabs around the ears. In more advanced cases, there may be fluid or pus present, indicating a secondary infection.

Sensitivity to Touch

Cats with ear mites may become more sensitive to being touched around the head and ears. They might flinch or pull away when you try to pet them or act out of character due to discomfort.

Behavioral Changes

Some cats become more withdrawn or irritable due to the discomfort caused by ear mites. Others may vocalize more often or hide away in quiet areas. Any sudden shift in behavior should prompt a veterinary visit.

How Do Cats Get Ear Mites?

Understanding how cats contract ear mites can help reduce exposure and support better prevention at home. 

Contact with Other Animals

Cats often pick up ear mites from close contact with other pets. This includes not only other cats but also dogs and ferrets, all of which can host the same type of ear mite. Animal shelters, boarding facilities, and multi-pet households increase the risk of exposure.

Contaminated Environments

Although ear mites don’t survive long without a host, they can live in the environment for a short period. Shared bedding, grooming tools, or toys may contribute to transmission, especially in areas with poor hygiene practices.

Outdoor Exposure

Outdoor cats face higher risk because they frequently encounter other animals and unsanitary conditions. Stray or feral cats often carry ear mites, and a brief interaction can be enough to pass the parasite along. While indoor cats are less exposed, they’re not immune—especially if they live with pets that go outdoors or regularly interact with other animals.

Diagnosing Cat Ear Mites at the Veterinary Clinic

If you suspect your cat has ear mites, the next step is to schedule an appointment. Diagnosing ear mites requires a close look inside the ears and sometimes microscopic evaluation to confirm their presence.

Physical Examination

Your veterinarian will start by inspecting your cat’s ears for debris, inflammation, and any visible signs of mites. In some cases, they may use an otoscope to get a better look inside the ear canal.

Microscopic Analysis

To confirm a diagnosis, your veterinarian may collect a small sample of the debris inside your cat’s ears. By examining the sample under a microscope, they can detect the presence of ear mites and determine the extent of the infestation.

Differentiating from Other Conditions

Several conditions, such as bacterial or yeast infections, can mimic the symptoms of cat ear mites. An accurate diagnosis is critical, as these conditions require different treatments. Your veterinarian will rule out other causes before recommending treatment.

How Are Cat Ear Mites Treated? 

Once diagnosed, treatment can begin. Cat ear mites are highly treatable, and your veterinarian will tailor the plan to your cat’s condition and medical history.

Prescription Medications

Most treatment plans involve prescription ear drops or topical medications that kill the mites. These medications often contain an antiparasitic ingredient and may also include antibiotics or anti-inflammatory components to reduce discomfort.

Follow-Up Visits

In some cases, follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure the treatment is working and to check for any lingering infection or damage to the ear canal. Your veterinarian will recommend a timeline based on your cat’s response to treatment.

Treating All Pets in the Home

Since cat ear mites are highly contagious, your veterinarian may recommend treating all pets in the household—even if they aren’t showing symptoms. This helps eliminate the parasite completely and prevents re-infestation.

Preventing Cat Ear Mites in the Future

After treating cat ear mites, it’s important to reduce the chance of recurrence by making a few changes at home and maintaining good communication with your veterinary team.

• Regular Ear Checks: Routine ear exams can help catch early signs of irritation or infestation. Check your cat’s ears weekly for any buildup, odor, or redness. If you notice changes, contact your veterinarian promptly.
• Hygiene and Cleanliness: Clean your cat’s bedding and grooming tools regularly to remove any potential contaminants. If you have multiple pets, ensure shared spaces and supplies are kept clean and disinfected.
• Limit Outdoor Exposure: Limiting outdoor access—or supervising your cat when they’re outside—can reduce the likelihood of contact with infected animals. If your cat does go outdoors, perform regular ear checks and watch for signs of discomfort.
• Routine Wellness Visits: Regular veterinary visits offer a chance to catch and treat health issues before they become more serious. Your veterinarian may include an ear exam as part of your cat’s routine wellness care.

Cat ear mites can cause significant discomfort and lead to long-term ear problems if left untreated. Staying aware of the symptoms, scheduling regular wellness visits, and maintaining a clean environment all support your cat’s health. If you notice scratching, debris in the ears, or behavioral changes, book an appointment at Heart of Chelsea Veterinary Group. Our experienced team can identify the cause of your cat’s symptoms and offer tailored treatment to help them feel comfortable again. Call one of our locations or book an appointment online to get started.