Ear mites in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated November 18, 2025
4 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to call

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Ear mites in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated November 18, 2025
4 min read

Ear mites are a common, highly contagious, tiny parasite. Cats become infested through direct contact with another infested animal or from the environment. Any cat can catch ear mites, but kittens are more susceptible. Ear mites are usually easy to treat.

The ear mite (Otodectes cynotis) is a surface mite that lives on cats and dogs. Ear mites can cause intense ear irritation and discomfort. These tiny parasites are rarely seen by the naked eye and diagnosis needs confirmation by a vet.

What are ear mites in cats? >What are ear mites in cats? [Overview

What are the symptoms of ear mites in cats? >What are the symptoms of ear mites in cats? [Symptoms

Are some cats more likely to have ear mites? >Are some cats more likely to have ear mites? [Risk

How are ear mites diagnosed? >How are ear mites diagnosed? [Diagnosis

How are ear mites treated in cats? >How are ear mites treated in cats? [Vet treatment

Home treatment for ear mites in cats >Home treatment for ear mites in cats [Home treatment

How to prevent ear mites in cats? >How to prevent ear mites in cats? [Prevention

When should you call a vet for your cat with ear mites? >When should you call a vet for your cat with ear mites? [When to call

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