Cat Mites

Mites that are found on the body of the felines are known as 'Mange'. These parasitic creatures may settle on different body parts, from the ear tunnels to the genital areas, and can cause a huge amount of discomfort and irritation to the animal. Severe scratching of the infested areas may worsen the problem and also lead to damp sores in the body. They are extremely contagious and can easily pass from cats to cats, or from cats to dogs. Some mites may even crawl onto human bodies. Get an idea about the different type of cat mites here.

Type of Mites

Ear Mites (Otodectes Cynotis)
This is the most common form of mites that are generally found in the body of cats. The name is misleading, as ear mites might dwell in different parts of the body, apart from the ears. These minute critters survive on epidermal debris and earwax, and causes 'Otitis Externa' (inflammation of the outer ear canal) in cats.

Burrowing Mites
A relatively rare form of mites, these parasites attacks the cat's head. They can be ruthlessly itchy (generally in the base of the ears) and may lead to severe cases of 'Alopecia' or hair loss of the animal. In acute cases, the animal's health may get highly deteriorated, with cases of blood poisoning also.

Walking Dandruff (Cheyletiella)
This condition is generally brought about by a mite known as 'Cheyletiella'. A cat infested with these mites appears to have moving scales when carefully examined. The movement in scales is due to the mites crawling around under the scales of the skin. These mites are extremely itchy and may even attack humans.

Generally, a mite-infested cat should be immediately brought under the purview of a veterinarian. Depending on the severity of the condition and the site of infection, the vet will prescribe ear drops, oral antibiotics or other topical treatments to eliminate the problem.