When you notice your cat or dog incessantly scratching their ears and shaking their head, it could be ear mites.
Although ear mites are a very treatable condition, complications can arise if you wait too long to make an appointment with your veterinarian.
What are ear mites?
- Ear mites are pinhead-sized ectoparasites (external parasites) that thrive and breed inside the ear canal and are the leading cause of ear infections in cats and dogs. They are relatively common after another familiar ectoparasite…fleas.
- Cats, especially kittens, are affected more than dogs. Ear mites can also infect rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, and other small pets.
- Although very tiny, it’s possible to see these speedy pests as white spots moving about inside the ear. They can also venture to other parts of the body.
How does my pet get ear mites?
- Ear mites are highly contagious and pets who venture outdoors are especially vulnerable. If your pet comes in contact with another animal who has ear mites, your pet may also become infected.
- Since they are so contagious if you have multiple pets and one is infected, chances are the others will be as well.
- Mites can also be passed from parent to newborn if the parent is already infected. For example, if you ever bring an abandoned kitten into your home from outside, chances are they’ll have ear mites.
Signs/Symptoms:
- Excessive scratching around ears, head, and face.
- Repeated head-shaking and pawing at ears.
- The appearance of fast-moving white specks in the ear.
- Hair loss in areas of excessive scratching and grooming.
- Noticeable bleeding or infected wounds from scratching.
- A dark, gooey or crusted, foul-smelling substance inside your pet’s ears which may resemble coffee grounds.
Should you suspect that your pooch or kitty has ear mites, call your vet for an appointment.
The faster you get a diagnosis and treatment for your pet, the better it will be to take control of the situation.
If left untreated, an infection could spread to the middle and inner ear causing damage to the eardrum, which could potentially lead to hearing loss and balance issues.
The vet will look into your pet’s ears with an otoscope if the pet allows, or take a swab of the discharge and do a microscopic examination to reach a diagnosis.
Treatment:
- The ears will be cleaned by the vet to remove residue within the ear canal.
- Medication will be prescribed to apply to the ear or directly to the skin. The vet may also prescribe preventative medication for other pets in your household.
- If the ear or any wounds are infected, your pet may also need an antibiotic.
- It may be recommended to shampoo your pet as well to remove any remaining mites.
It’s also essential to thoroughly clean areas where your pet spends much time and wash bedding. After all, you don’t want these pests to find their way onto your pet again.
If you are concerned that your pet is suffering from ear mites or any other ailment, contact Dr. James Miller at My Hometown Vet to make an appointment. He has 2 convenient locations – Durham, NC (919) 620-7387 and Hillsborough, NC (919) 644-7387. Check out special offers for new patients!
