Infection of cats with an ear mite is dangerous for them by the development of otodectosis, or ear scabies. In neglected states, this infestation can take a chronic course. The favorite location of the parasitic insect is the ear canal and the eardrum.
An animal can get mites in different ways, from close contact with infected tribesmen and co-habitation of healthy and sick cats with otodectosis, to contact of pets with household items, in which mites have penetrated.
The presence of an ear mite in a cat is recognized by the following signs:
- Redness and peeling of the inside of the ear;
- Itching in the area of the external auditory canal;
- restlessness of the animal;
- shaking of the head in an attempt to get rid of the parasites;
- scratching the affected areas of the ear with claws.
Progressive otodectosis leads to a deterioration of the cat’s body condition. The site of mite infiltration becomes inflamed, first producing a serous exudate, and then pus. An abundance of purulent contents and its accumulation in the ear folds leads to the source of unpleasant odor and closure of the ear canal. The advanced form of an ear mite can lead to cat deafness.
How to get rid of an ear mite: treating cats for otodectosis
The beginning of the application of medicines should be preceded by clearing the auricle of crusts and fluid. They are removed with chlorhexidine, a weak solution of manganese or hydrogen peroxide. One of these preparations is moistened with a cotton swab and thoroughly treat the cat’s ears, taking a new swab or swab for each of them.
Most often, special drops are prescribed for the treatment of cat ear mite. They are put into both ears of the pet, regardless of whether the other shell is involved in the pathological process or not. But excessive administration of drops should not be abused, since overdoses can be dangerous for cats due to the poison they contain.
If otodectosis is treated by treating the ears with gels and ointments, they are smeared over the entire surface of the shell. The manipulation is carried out very carefully. Therapy with powdered preparations consists of pouring them into the shell in small quantities and lightly massaging the ear.
Means released in the form of aerosols are sprayed for 2 seconds from a distance of no more than 5 cm. At the same time try to achieve a hit of the drug exactly on the affected sites. In order for any treatment of ear mites to be as effective as possible, it is carried out three times with an interval of 5 - 7 days. Such an approach is motivated by the cyclic development of the parasites.
Otodectosis prevention
The main preventive measure against ear mites in cats is regular inspection and treatment of the ear canals with special hygienic lotions. Following the rules of ear hygiene, the risk of infecting the pet with the pathogenic parasite can be reduced. It is also recommended to keep pets away from stray or sick congeners if possible.