Ear Mites in Cats

Ear mites are a common parasite in cats, and more than 50% of cats suffer from various stages of ear mite infections. Minor or subclinical infection may go unnoticed. When this happens, secondary bacterial or fungal infections may result.

While mites cannot see, the exudate left by the mites can be seen in the ears and very noticeable. Its appearance is black and crusty and looks similar to coffee grounds. The ears may also be odorous. Your cat will no doubt scratch relentlessly and shake its head, as these unwelcome visitors are highly irritating.

NOTE: Mites are easily passed from one animal to another, so all animals in close contact should be examined and treated for mites.

A cat that is unthrifty and malnourished often invites unwanted guests, such as mites. A healthy whole foods diet (fresh chicken, turkey, fish, egg, yogurt, and vegetables) can influence the health of the ears by strengthening the immune system. You can also add specific ingredients to the diet that will repel mites. For instance, garlic is a natural parasite repellant and adding it to the diet in a small amount will help deter mites.

Mites can be easily and quickly eliminated with natural treatment remedies. Some medicines help destroy and repel mites that can be used inside the ears. But, first, you’ll want to wash the ears very thoroughly.

Herbal Ear Wash

Many over-the-counter herbal ear wash products are effective. Simply take a cotton ball, dip it in an in-ear wash, and carefully remove the debris you can see inside the ear flap and the outer ear canal area once daily.

After you’ve cleaned the external parts of the ear thoroughly next, a herbal extract medication can be used to kill the mites and prevent them from returning. Administer the medicine into the ear canal, then massage at the base of the ear canal.

The extract will suffocate the mites and also make the ears less inviting to them. Your cat will probably shake its head after adding the drops to its ears – this is good because it will help distribute the remedy and may also help to loosen or dislodge any wax and debris build-up. The treatment is three days and is repeated two more times with a week’s break in between. This treatment schedule will kill all stages of the mite’s life-cycle – eggs, larvae, nymph and adult mites.

Home Remedy for Ear Mites In Cats

Mites Go Away (home remedy):

Yellow Dock – 1 cup water to 1 rounded tsp. of dried herb or one tbs. Fresh herb. Steep for 15 minutes.

Hydrogen peroxide – 1 tbs.

Aloe vera gel – 1/2 tsp.

Lemon juice from the fresh lemon – 1/2 tsp.

Clean ears thoroughly with an ear wash product. Then use the above natural remedy solution for three days and repeat two more times with a week’s break in between. Keep this solution stored in the refrigerator and warm before use.

NOTE: (You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the lemon juice)

In cases of severe mite infestation, you may need to bathe your cat around the head and outside of the ears. Also, shampoo the tip of the tail where mites often ‘hang out. Use a medicated shampoo that contains herbs that specifically work to eliminate parasites.

Remember how important a wholesome diet is for your cat – both inside and out – your cat’s good health depends on it! The best results are achieved when the ears are treated as well as the whole body.