by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: May 07, 2009

Ear mites are a common cause of feline ear infections.These parasites are small spider-like creatures that live in both the ears, and on the bodies, of cats and other animals. Ear mites can live for approximately two months both on, and just beneath, the skin's surface. They are sustained by feeding on debris and tissue found inside the cat's ears and on the body. Ear mites lay eggs in the fur and ear canals of infected cats thereby perpetuating the mite's life cycle. Ear mites are highly contagious. If one household pet has ear mites then the rest of the animals in your home probably have them as well. Humans can also be infected.

Ear mites are uncomfortable and often a cause of bacterial and yeast infection. If left untreated the constant scratching by your cat to rid himself of the itch caused by the mites may lead to ruptured blood vessels. Infections can lead to damaged eardrums. Damaged eardrums can lead to deafness.

It is usually easy to spot the signs that your cat has been infected with ear mites. Constant head shaking, excess scratching and dark odorous ear wax are common signs of ear mites. However, there are many causes of ear disease in cats and an examination by a veterinarian is the safest way of obtaining the correct diagnosis. Misdiagnosing a disease yourself, and then applying inappropriate treatment, could make the situation worse. Veterinarians are familiar with feline ear disease and have specialized equipment to aid in diagnosis.

It is important to treat ear mites quickly to prevent spreading. If one household pet has been diagnosed with ear mites, all animals in the house should be treated. Ear mites can live off of the body for a period of time and therefore the household environment will also need treatment. Your cat will need to be treated in both ears even if one ear does not appear infected. Their coat should also be treated. Pay attention to their bedding and any areas where they spend time.

There are a variety of home remedy treatments for ear mites. Be very careful when treating your cat with a home remedy. Do not attempt a home treatment if there is any sign of infection. An infection is usually accompanied by a strong odor.

1. Use a small amount of oil such as baby, mineral or olive oil to clean out your cat's ears. The oils will suffocate the mites.

2. Wipe out the ears with a small amount of the oil on a cotton ball or swab.

3. To avoid damage, do not put the cotton swab inside the ear canal.

4. Continue the treatment twice a day for at least a month.

5. A dropper can also be used to place oil drops inside the ears.

6. Aloe Vera can also be used to clean the ears and get rid of mites. Be sure to purchase pure Aloe Vera and not a product with additives.

It is usually a quick process to treat and kill any ear mites bothering your cat. Keep their ears clean, watch them for signs of discomfort and when necessary take them to the veterinarian for appropriate diagnosis.

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