You might think that since your cat never steps outside, it’s protected from common parasites. But here’s a surprise: yes, indoor cats can get ear mites too. Even without contact with other animals, your cat isn’t completely immune to these itchy, annoying pests.
In this guide, we’ll explore how indoor cats can get ear mites, what symptoms to watch for, how to treat them, and how to prevent future flare-ups. We’ll also cover behavioral side effects—like excessive scratching or spraying—and how to calm a stressed cat naturally.
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Can Indoor Cats Really Get Ear Mites?
Yes, indoor cats can get ear mites, especially if they’ve had contact with another pet or even a contaminated object brought into the home. Ear mites are tiny, spider-like parasites that live inside the ear canal, feeding on wax and skin oils. They are extremely contagious among animals—even brief exposure can lead to an infestation.
How indoor cats get ear mites:
- From other pets in the home (dogs, cats, or ferrets)
- Through contact with pet bedding, brushes, or carriers
- From a visit to the groomer or vet
- Adopting a new pet carrying mites
- Visitors who have pets with mites
While less common than in outdoor cats, indoor cats can—and do—get ear mites.
What Are Ear Mites?
Ear mites, or *Otodectes cynotis*, are highly contagious parasites that primarily affect the ears, though they can sometimes be found on the skin. They’re microscopic, so you won’t see the mites themselves—but you’ll definitely notice the symptoms they cause.
Key facts:
- Live in the ear canal and feed on debris and wax
- Cause intense itching and inflammation
- Can lead to infections or hematomas if untreated
- Most common in kittens, but adult cats can be infected too
Symptoms of Ear Mites in Cats
If your indoor cat is constantly scratching their ears or shaking their head, ear mites could be to blame. The irritation they cause often leads to over-grooming, anxiety, and even behavior changes.
Signs to watch for:
- Frequent ear scratching or head shaking
- Dark brown or black crumbly discharge (coffee ground texture)
- Red, inflamed ear canal
- Bad odor from ears
- Crusty scabs around the ears
- Increased irritability or hiding
In severe cases, cats may scratch so much they cause a **hematoma**, which is a painful blood-filled swelling in the ear flap. Behavior changes, like spraying or aggression, may also surface due to discomfort.
Stress from ear discomfort can cause sudden litter box issues or spraying. If you’re noticing both physical and behavior signs, take action now.
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How to Diagnose Ear Mites
If you suspect ear mites, your best move is to visit a veterinarian. They’ll use an otoscope or take an ear swab and view it under a microscope to confirm the presence of mites. It’s essential not to assume and treat blindly—some infections mimic the signs of mites but require different treatments.
Conditions that resemble ear mites:
- Yeast or bacterial ear infections
- Allergic reactions or food sensitivities
- Foreign objects in the ear canal
- Dermatitis or immune disorders
Proper diagnosis ensures the right medication and faster relief for your cat.
Treatment for Ear Mites in Indoor Cats
Once diagnosed, your vet will prescribe a medication—usually a topical ear drop or spot-on treatment that kills mites at all life stages.
Common treatment approaches:
- Ear cleaning to remove debris and wax
- Topical medications (selamectin, moxidectin, or ivermectin)
- Systemic treatments like Revolution or Advantage Multi
- Anti-inflammatory drops if the ears are very irritated
At-home care tips:
- Clean bedding, toys, and carriers thoroughly
- Treat all pets in the household—ear mites spread fast
- Avoid using harsh cleaners or cotton swabs deep in the ear
- Continue full treatment even if symptoms improve early
Don’t stop treatment too soon. Mites lay eggs, and missing even a few can cause a re-infestation in days.
Can Ear Mites Cause Behavior Problems?
Yes—cats with untreated ear mites often develop anxiety-driven behaviors like hiding, spraying, and aggression. Chronic discomfort can disrupt routines and even make your cat fearful or defensive toward you and other pets.
Behavioral issues linked to ear mite irritation:
- Excessive grooming and fur loss
- Spraying due to stress or frustration
- Avoiding touch or being held
- Scratching furniture or sudden aggression
These symptoms often improve after treating the physical cause—but you may also need to support your cat emotionally to fully reset their behavior.
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How to Prevent Ear Mites in Indoor Cats
Prevention starts with limiting exposure and maintaining good hygiene for your cat’s environment. While ear mites are tricky and contagious, you can reduce the risk significantly with a few simple steps.
Preventive tips:
- Keep new pets isolated and checked before introductions
- Regularly clean and inspect ears (especially after vet/grooming visits)
- Use monthly parasite preventives if advised by your vet
- Disinfect bedding, brushes, and shared surfaces regularly
- Minimize stress and provide a calm, enriching environment
If your indoor cat has had mites before, a routine ear check should become part of your grooming routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ear mites go away on their own?
No—ear mites do not resolve on their own. Without treatment, the infestation worsens and may lead to infections or permanent ear damage.
Can I use home remedies for ear mites?
Are ear mites contagious to humans?
It’s rare. Ear mites are species-specific and prefer animal hosts. In extremely rare cases, mild skin irritation in humans has been reported—but it’s not common or dangerous.
Final Thoughts
Even indoor cats are not entirely safe from ear mites. These tiny parasites spread quickly, cause intense itching, and can lead to behavioral problems if untreated. The good news? With proper diagnosis, treatment, and a clean environment, your cat can recover quickly and comfortably.
If your cat also shows signs of spraying, fearfulness, or sudden aggression, the stress from mites may be affecting them more deeply than you realize.
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