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I think that cat lovers everywhere are worried about ear mites in cats, and will be aware that all cats will have some natural level of ear mite infestation, which generally speaking, does not raise any unusual daily concern. The real problem occurs when the infestation is not regularly and effectively controlled, and as a result, goes on to develop to such an extent that the pest begins to cause severe irritation, itching, and inflammation of the outer ear. In trying to diagnose this problem, look out for the symptoms of constant scratching and be alert if the cat holds its ears flat against its head and shakes it as if trying to get something out of its ears. There is a good chance your cat has ear mites when this occurs, and this should be the first warning signal that all is not well and that the problem needs to be addressed urgently. It can be a particular problem in multi cat households, and also when cats are regularly allowed out of doors.
What are Ear Mites?
So what are ear mites anyway? Essentially, they are tiny parasites which live and breed inside the ears of a cat, feeding on its ear lining and bringing up their eggs and families in relative comfort unless eradicated. They are mainly to be found in kittens and when a large number of mites has developed, can become very contagious, as they can produce a dark brown smelly discharge comprising wax, ear mites, eggs and mite feces. Some cats however, can be infested without any visible symptoms manifesting themselves, so be on the look out and beware. Adult cats for some reason are less likely to be infested, although they can be afflicted, but once you have diagnosed the problem as serious and long standing, you must get the animal to a vet for treatment as quickly as possible and this will probably involve some form of medication.
Serious Cases Should go to the Vet
A word of caution is called for here. The cat may have scratched itself sufficiently hard as to cause bleeding to the ears resulting in cuts and sores which will be extremely painful. My advice is do not try to treat the animal yourself in advanced or prolonged cases, as serious damage to the ears can result. You should not attempt to use cotton swabs or buds to remove any discharge or other matter which will be better left to a qualified vet to handle. Be aware that prolonged infestation without treatment can result in infections such as "Otitis Externa" if the open sores are not cleaned and treated with an antiseptic. Such an infection may permanently damage a cat's hearing and sense of balance. You should also keep hind nails clipped throughout the treatment of ear mites to prevent the cat from further damaging its ears.
Early Home Treatment Can Work
Prescription medication can quickly and successfully treat this condition, but are only available from a vet, who will also clean up the sores and remove any build up that may have resulted from the mites. If a visit to a vet is not possible, some owners have had success by using a mineral oil, which when dropped sparingly into ears and gently massaged, works to smother and suffocate the mites. Don't forget that a "one off" application is insufficient to do the job. Continued treatment is necessary to break the life cycle of the mites and make sure all eggs and mites are eliminated, so keep at it and after two weeks of using the mineral oil, the ear mites should be eradicated. During treatment the ears can be wiped with a Kleenex to clear out build up. Treat each cat in the house to ensure there is not a cross infection between them, requiring treatment to be started over from the beginning.
Ear mites can be effectively handled and eliminated at home, as long as this home treatment is performed regularly in the early stages of the problem. If this method fails, however, and the condition worsens, refer to your veterinarian urgently to ensure the problem of ear mites in cats is dealt with quickly and professionally.
Terry Blackburn. Internet Marketing Consultant, living in South Shields in the North-East of England. Author and Publisher of http://www.catcote.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Blackburn
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