How to clean cat’s ears with mites at Home without any solution

Ear Drops! My kitten had ear mites in one ear. I don’t think it was as severe as the picture you’ve shown, but I took him to the vet, and here’s how it went.


I had the vet check his ear to assess the severity, and they performed a professional ear cleaning (using long cotton sticks). Then, I bought an ear solution, which I applied every other day.

I also cleaned his ear myself using cotton buds/Q-tips, being careful not to push them too far into the ear. I only removed what was visible.And it worked! Within about two to three weeks, the ear mites were completely gone. 🙂

I’m a bit of a neat freak, so I probably cleaned his ears more often than necessary, but it worked! The scratching was driving me crazy, although it probably bothered him even more. Good luck!
Home Remedies for Cats with Ear Mites.

One day, while scratching your cat’s ears, you might notice something unusual inside: a dark brown, crumbly substance that resembles coffee grounds.

This could indicate ear mites, tiny parasitic insects that live and breed in the ear canal. Ear mites feed on skin debris, cell fluids, and blood, and can damage the ear canal tissue.

Ear mite infestations are usually itchy, so infected cats will scratch their ears—sometimes until they are raw—or shake their heads and hold their ears at odd angles. Ear mites are common and can spread between cats and other animals.

Ear mites

Treatment involves removing the mites from the ears and using a topical insecticide in the ear canal to kill any remaining mites and those that hatch from eggs. It’s essential to treat all animals in the household; if you don’t, the mites can move from one pet to another.

Before treating your cat, confirm that ear mites are the problem. Gently remove a bit of the debris from your cat’s ear using a cotton ball, and examine it under a bright light with a magnifier or spread it on dark paper. If you notice movement—such as tiny white specks moving—then mites are present.

Other signs of ear mites in cats include:

  • Strong odor in the ears
  • Inflammation or redness of the ear(s)
  • Hair loss around the ears
  • Skin problems or scabs near the ears
  • Persistent head shaking

Mite debris can sometimes be located deep in the ear canal, making it hard to see. If you suspect ear mites, gently massage the back of your cat’s ear at the base. A cat without mites will enjoy it or may try to move away, while a cat with mites will likely start scratching vigorously.

Other ear conditions can cause similar symptoms, so don’t start home remedies until you’re fairly certain ear mites are the cause. If you’re unsure, it’s better to consult a vet to rule out other issues.

If you’re confident your cat has mites, here are some home remedies to consider:
Treating a Cat with Ear Mites: FAQ

How do you get rid of ear mites in cats?


Use a three-step process: first, clean the ears to remove as many mites as possible. Then, apply ear mite medication and gently massage the ear with a cotton swab. Finally, continue using over-the-counter ear mite medication until the mites are completely gone.

How do you know if your cat has ear mites?


If your cat is shaking its head or scratching its ears excessively, and you see dark brown, crumbly debris inside the ears, it’s a possible sign. Gently remove some of the debris and use a magnifier to confirm if mites are present.How to clean cat’s ears with mites at Home without any solution

What medicine kills ear mites?


Medications containing pyrethrins are effective, but they can be toxic to cats, so use with caution. Many vets now recommend medications containing ivermectin instead.

Do you need to take your cat to the vet for ear mites?


If home remedies don’t work, or if the condition worsens, take your cat to the vet before the mites cause an ear infection.

Can oil kill ear mites?


Oil won’t kill ear mites, but it can help soften the debris in the ear.

Can oil kill ear mites?


Home Remedies for Cats with Diarrhea

Diarrhea is an issue that most pet owners don’t want to deal with, but it can be more serious for cats than for humans. If your cat’s stools have been loose, it could be cause for concern. Diarrhea can result from the body trying to quickly expel something, such as spoiled food or a mild irritant, and often resolves on its own.

However, certain viruses, diseases, dietary changes, or allergies may also cause prolonged diarrhea. If diarrhea lasts for more than 24 hours, it can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous.

Consider these questions:

  • Did your cat rummage through the trash?
  • Did she drink milk, which can cause diarrhea?
  • Did she eat “people” food or something new?
  • Did she experience any stress or trauma recently?

If diarrhea persists for over 24 hours, becomes watery, explosive, or bloody, or is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting or fever, contact your vet. If it’s just mild diarrhea, you can try home remedies.

Treating a Cat With Diarrhea

When treating your cat’s diarrhea at home, there are several methods you can try. One option is to change your cat’s diet (though it’s important to consult your vet first, as with all home remedies). Cat food often contains dyes and artificial ingredients that can make it harder for your cat’s digestive system to process.

Switching to a more natural brand may help resolve the current issue and prevent future episodes. However, be cautious when changing foods, as it can also cause intestinal upset, so make the transition gradually.Click for cat behavior and their other interests.

You may also consider feeding your cat a bland, home-cooked diet until the diarrhea subsides. A mix of two parts cooked white rice and one part boiled hamburger or chicken is easy to digest. If your cat dislikes rice, you can substitute plain mashed potatoes. Rice-based cat foods are also available at most pet supply stores.

Sometimes, a 12 to 24-hour fast can help calm things down. If nothing goes into your cat’s system (except water), there’s nothing to process, and the diarrhea should resolve.

When you resume feeding, start with the bland rice mixture, and slowly mix in regular food, gradually reducing the amount of rice until your cat returns to their normal diet.

A bulk-forming laxative, such as plain Metamucil, can have a normalizing effect on cats with diarrhea. If your cat’s stools are still slightly soft after a couple of days on the bland diet, try adding about half a teaspoon of Metamucil to each meal for a day or two.

It’s crucial that a cat with diarrhea stays hydrated and has access to plenty of fresh water. Diarrhea causes a loss of fluids and electrolytes—key nutrients necessary for proper nerve function.

To replenish them, you can give your cat unflavored Pedialyte, an electrolyte drink made for infants and children. Mix it with their water or administer it with a dropper.

Stress reduction, relaxation, and gentle exercise (like a walk with a leash and harness if your cat enjoys it) can help resolve loose stools. Avoid using over-the-counter diarrhea medications designed for humans unless specifically recommended by your vet.

Hopefully, one or more of these home remedies will get your cat’s digestive system back to normal, making both of you happier.

How do you clean a kitten’s ears?

Cleaning a kitten’s ears is similar to cleaning a grown cat’s ears. However, you may need a bit more patience as younger pets tend to be more playful and resistant during cleanings. Wrapping your kitten in a towel can help keep them from moving around too much.

How do you clean a kitten’s ears?

Remember to offer treats and praise them to associate ear cleaning with positive experiences. If necessary, ask someone to hold or cuddle your kitten while you clean.

When should you clean your cat’s ears?

Regularly checking your cat’s ears is an essential part of their care routine. During these inspections, look for dirt and wax buildup, as these can lead to infections. If you don’t spot any issues, there is no need to clean their ears. Cats are meticulous groomers, and most of them manage fine without extra ear-cleaning help.

However, it’s recommended to check your cat’s ears at least once a week. If you notice discharge or a foul odor, their ears need cleaning. If your cat is prone to wax buildup and ear infections, ear cleaning becomes a crucial part of their hygiene routine.

Depending on the severity of the issue, you may need to visit a veterinarian instead of cleaning their ears at home. If the ears are red, inflamed, or painful, consult your vet before cleaning.

How do you clean the ears of a cat that has ear mites?

Ear mite infestations can cause significant wax buildup in your cat’s ears. A cat with ear mites will require both ear cleaning and treatment. Your vet may recommend:

  • A topical ear medication, like Tresaderm
  • A course of ivermectin treatments
  • Single-use prescription products, such as milbemycin oxime (Interceptor)

Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning a cat’s ears:

According to Schechter, well-meaning pet parents often make mistakes when cleaning their cat’s ears. Here are some to avoid:

Hydrogen peroxide: Many pet owners use hydrogen peroxide to clean their cat’s ears, but it can dry out the ears. Instead, use a product specifically designed for cleaning cat ears.

Products with alcohol: Avoid using human products or those containing alcohol, as they can irritate your cat’s sensitive ears.

Overcleaning: Overcleaning may irritate the ear canal and lead to infection. Only clean your cat’s ears if you notice buildup, discharge, or a foul odor.


Cotton swabs: Cotton swabs can potentially puncture the eardrum or push debris further into the ear canal. It’s safer to use a cotton ball or gauze.

Why can it be difficult to clean your cat’s ears?

Cleaning a cat’s ears can be challenging, requiring patience and practice. Avoid attempting to clean your cat’s ears if they are anxious or resistant. If your cat has an ear infection or another painful ear condition, this can make the process uncomfortable, and you should visit your vet for a thorough examination and cleaning.

Monitor how your cat responds to cleanings. If your efforts cause distress, stop and consult your vet, as continuing may cause ear damage.

When should you see a vet about your cat’s ear problems?

Cleaning your cat’s ears at home is important, but there are times when veterinary care is necessary. Certain ear diseases, such as otitis externa (inflammation of the external ear canal), require specialized care. Symptoms include head shaking, redness, swelling, discharge, scaly skin, and excessive scratching.

When should you see a vet about your cat’s ear problems?

If your cat shows signs of this condition, your vet may need to clean their ears and prescribe topical medication or oral/injectable medications to relieve discomfort.

Frequently asked questions:

How often should you clean your cat’s ears?

There’s no set schedule. It depends on what you find during your routine inspections. If you notice dirt, wax buildup, or ear mites, it’s time for a cleaning.

Can you clean your cat’s ears with water?

It’s best to use an ear-cleaning solution formulated for cats. Some experts suggest using warm water on a cotton ball to wipe residue off the ear, but never pour water into your cat’s ear canal.

Is it safe to use Q-tips in a cat’s ears?

No, using Q-tips can damage the ear canal or eardrum. Safer alternatives are cotton balls or gauze pads.

Home Remedies for Cats with Fleas

Fleas are common nuisances for cats, and getting rid of them requires a multi-step approach. Fleas can reproduce quickly, and their eggs can survive in the environment for long periods.

A flea-infested cat may scratch excessively, and you may notice black, comma-shaped droppings (flea dirt) on their coat. Fleas are more than just an annoyance—some cats are allergic to flea saliva, which can cause rashes, infections, or even anemia from blood loss.

To treat fleas, you need to kill them on your cat and in your home. Over-the-counter flea treatments are often not strong enough, so it’s best to consult your vet for effective prescription options. Vacuum your home thoroughly, wash all bedding in hot water, and clean up the yard to prevent re-infestation.

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