Ear mites are crablike parasites that can live inside the ears of cats. They are very common, and usually the most likely culprit when a cat’s ear is inflamed or irritated. [1] X Research source Ear mites are highly contagious. Most cats get ear mites from another cat. If you have an outdoor cat or recently introduced a new cat to your home, ear mites are far more likely. Your cat could also come across ear mites while being boarded, but this is rare. Most animal boarding businesses check for ear mites before taking in cats. [2] X Research source Ear mites can happen to cats at any age but are more likely in kittens and younger cats. Their immunity is generally weaker so ear mites will choose them out over older, healthier cats. [3] X Research source

Your cat might appear irritated with his ears, scratching and pawing at them. Your cat might also shake his head frequently, causing hair loss. [4] X Research source An increase in ear wax or any thick and black crusty discharge from the ear is a sign of ear mites. [5] X Research source Skin lesions or sores may develop around the ear from excess scratching. [6] X Research source

Yeast infections can sometimes produce black discharge in a cat’s ear. [7] X Research source Hypothyroidism can cause inflammation and discharge around the ear. [8] X Research source Allergies, particularly food allergies, can cause symptoms similar to ear mites. [9] X Research source

The wax from a cat with ear mites is excessive and dark in color. There will often be scratches of scabs near the base of the ear from excessive scratching. [10] X Research source Cats may be sensitive about having their ear’s touched if they’re experiencing discomfort. Try having a friend or family member help you by holding the cat while you push back their ears to look inside.

Diagnosis ear mites is very easy for veterinarians and it can usually be done via a routine and non-invasive physical exam. [11] X Research source Your vet will use an otoscope, an instrument used for examining the ear, to magnify the ear and look at its internal structures under light. Usually, if ear mites are causing the symptoms, the vet will see them. [12] X Research source If your vet does not see ear mites, this does not necessarily mean your cat does not have ear mites. They will probably request a swab of the ear and examine it under a microscope to confirm ear mites. [13] X Research source

Ear mites can lead to infection if not treated promptly. Your cat’s ear canal can be affected, which can permanently damage hearing. [14] X Research source If your cat scratches excessively around their ear, this could lead to ruptures blood vessels that require surgery. [15] X Research source For these reasons, home diagnosis and treatment is not recommended for ear mites. After watching for symptoms and checking your cat’s ears, make a vet appointment immediately. [16] X Research source

Never treat ear mites without having them diagnosed by a vet. Anti-mite solutions could easily irritate or worsen problems with similar symptoms to ear mites. [17] X Research source . Regular and thorough ear-cleaning is required to cure ear mites. Commercial cleaner is usually used to clear the ear of debris, followed by cleaning with prescription ointments. [18] X Research source A cat’s tail should be cleaned as well, as they frequently wrap themselves in their tails to sleep. This means eggs and mites can spread to the surrounding fur. [19] X Research source Ointments and pesticides prescribed by your doctor should be used for 7 to 10 days following an outbreak. If you have any other pets in your home, clean their ears as well as ear mites have likely spread. [20] X Research source Cats can be stubborn about taking medication. Have a friend help you if your cat is particularly resistant to treatment.

If you have an outdoor cat, you might consider keeping him inside if he is prone to frequent ear mite outbreaks. However, outdoor cats can be difficult to keep inside if they’re accustom to coming and going as they please. If your cat suffers from Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) he should not go outside. Not only does his weakened immune system make him more susceptible to ear mites, the spread of FIV can be prevented by limiting his exposure to strange cats. Be wary of animal shelters and pet stores where ear mite outbreaks are common. Check all incoming kittens and cats for signs of ear mites before releasing them into your home.