What exactly is.......

[willowsmom]

ear mites?? I don't think my kitties have them I was just reading a few post for awhile ago and started thinking that I have no clue what ear mites are or what to watch out for or anything!!!!! so I Figured I would ask and see what everyone says

 

[sandie]

Ear mites are a tiny parasite that will live inside the ear, sometimes even on the outer surface of the ear. Generally young cats are more prone to them. They pick them up either living outdoors or coming into contact with another cat who has them.
The signs are usually a dark brown discharge in the ears, shaking their heads, or scratching at their ears. This picture shows what they would look like under a microscope.

 

[jcat]

Here's a good site with further information on ear mites and their treatment: http://www.vetinfo4cats.com/cearmites.html

 

[willowsmom]

Cool!!!! Thanks!!!! I was just really Curious!