Can Cat Ear Mites Spread to Humans? A Quick Guide
Ear mites in cats are highly contagious, often spreading to other felines and even dogs. Therefore, if you discover that one of your cats has ear mites, it's crucial to be aware that the rest of your pets may be at a high risk of infection as well. Ear mites are highly infectious parasites, and cats with severe infections should be isolated to prevent widespread transmission.
Why Do Cats Get Ear Mites?
Cats are prone to ear mites due to the constant accumulation of earwax that is not regularly cleaned out. It's essential for pet owners to regularly clean their cats' ears. Additionally, it's important to avoid getting water into a cat's ears during baths, as their ear structure, consisting of horizontal and vertical ear canals, can trap moisture that's difficult to expel. Cats that frequently play outdoors are also more susceptible to ear mites. If you can't limit their outdoor time, it's crucial to frequently clean your cat's ears to maintain their ear hygiene.
How to Clean Your Cat's Ears?
First, gather the necessary tools and medications. These typically include a nonslip clothing item, a medical curvedneedle forceps, cotton balls, ear cleaning solution, and a treatment for ear mites such as Aderm. Next, follow the treatment protocol for ear mites. Treatment usually doesn't take too long; for mild cases, sticking to daily cleaning and medication can resolve the issue within a week or so. For more severe cases, treatment may take longer. Begin by wrapping your cat in a blanket to prevent struggling, unless your cat is calm and doesn't move much. Once the cat is secured, pull its ears back and gently introduce the ear cleaning solution into the ear canal. Close the ear and massage the base of the ear to soften the earwax. Your cat should find this process quite comfortable and unlikely to resist. Allow the cat to shake its head to expel the debris, then use the curved forceps to gently wipe away any dirt from the outer ear. If your cat is particularly resistant, it's best to have a professional clean the ears, which is usually a costeffective option. After cleaning, apply Aderm to prevent and eliminate mites.
Dr. Oxygen Pet reminds pet owners that treating ear mites in cats requires patience. Only by consistently cleaning your cat's ears daily can you ensure they remain free from ear mites. Although there is still a small chance of infection, ear mites have a low survival rate in human ears, and if detected, they can be easily removed at a clinic without affecting your health. In summary, by taking good care of your cat's ears, you can rest easy knowing the risk of ear mites is minimized!
