What is Ear Mites?
Ear mites are very common crab-like parasites that infest both dogs and cats. These tiny mites usually live on the surface of the skin of the ear canals, head, neck and even the bodies of pets. They feed on the tissue debris and secretions caused by mite waste products and resemble coffee grounds. The mites cause your pet to itch profusely, so if you see him shaking his head or scratching his ears, he may be infested with ear mites. They are extremely contagious and frequently spread to other pets within the household. Ear mites are also often one of the primary causes of ear infections and inflammation. If left untreated, ear mites may result in serious complications such as a middle ear disorder for your dog or cat. They can affect pets of any age, but are most common in young pets.