Ear mites in cats are not a rare health care problems. Treating ear mites has become a relatively easy experience now that veterinarians can prescribe safe and effective medications that do not require applications every day for weeks.
Caused by a little mite called Otodectes cynotis, the mites generally live along the surface of the ear canal, but can also be found on other areas of the body or in the environment. These mites can, but seldom do, infest humans. They can lead to serious ear difficulties in cats and dogs if not treated.
LIFE CYCLE
The ear mite life cycle, which takes about twenty-one days from egg to adult, entails going through four different stages.
Stage 1: The Eggs
Female ear mites usually lay about 5 eggs daily during their entire adult life. Deposited on the surface lining of the ear canal, the eggs hatch within 4 days.
Stage 2: The Larvae
Once hatched from the eggs, the larvae feed for 4 days then rest for 24 hours as they molt into the nymphal phase.
Stage 3: The NymphsHeck
Two stages of nymphs are recognized. Each feeds for 3 to 5 days and then rests and then molts to the next stage.
Stage 4: The Adults
Just barely visible to the naked eye, the adult ear mite appears white in color and feeds off the epithelial debris in the cat's ear.
SIGNS OF EAR MITES IN CATS
A diagnosis of ear mites by the veterinarian is usually made by one of the following methods:
TREATMENT:
There are a number of medications used to treat ear mites in cats. Your veterinarian will prescribe an effective product.