It is a well-known fact that indoor cats are always healthier and happier than their outdoor counterparts, but not many people think twice about the fact that their feline friends share their homes with rodents, bugs, and other pests. That is why many cat owners worry about their pets getting ear mites, however, while it is not unheard of for an indoor cat to get an ear mite infection, it is not a common occurrence, so if you have any cats, you do not have to worry.
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Can Indoor Cats Get Ear Mites?
Ear mites are a common problem in cats and are one of the most common reasons for a visit to a veterinarian. These mites are not only annoying to their owners, but the parasites can also cause skin irritation and other health problems.
Ear mites, which are tiny parasitic worms, live in cats’ ears, and they cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, discharge, crusting, and occasional bleeding.
How Can I Tell if My Cat Has Ear Mites?
Unfortunately, there is no quick and easy way to see if a cat has ear mites. In most cases, you will need to take the cat to the veterinarian for a thorough examination. If you are worried about ear mites in your cat, there are some things you can do to prevent the spread of ear mites.
Amongst cats, head and neck disorders are usually the primary cause of ear inflammation, so if your cat is scratching, rubbing, or licking their ears often, it may be a sign that they have ear mites. Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in the cats ear canal, and they are very small. The easiest way to check whether your cat has ear mites is to use a flashlight and shine it into their ear. If the light reflects off mites, your cat probably has mites.
How are Ear Mites Treated?
Ear mite infestation is not at all uncommon, even for cats that do not have itchy ears, and there are several ways to treat the infection, including over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and home remedies. Ear mites are spread as larvae via airborne particles, so if you find a cat scratching or rubbing its ears, there is a good chance the animal has an ear mite infestation and you need to take action.
How Can Ear Mites Be Prevented in Cats?
As with most pet parasites, hygiene and regular checkups are always key to prevent ear mites.
On your next visit to the veterinarian, talk about some of the best ways you can avoid ear mites in cats—such as making sure their toys and bedding remain clean. You may also want to inspect their ears regularly for signs of a problem that could result from contact with other cats or other animals’ items.
Besides eating well-balanced meals and receiving exercise through play, one of the best things any owner can do to protect against ear mites is routinely keeping their cat’s ears clean (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly). A vet will ensure you’re cleaning them properly
My name is Ben and I am a cat lover. I’m not a professional writer or a doctor or an expert of any kind on anything. But I am a guy who likes to share what little knowledge and experience I have with others.
