Ear mites are highly contagious. They can be passed from animal to animal inside and outside your home. Mites are itchy so you may notice your cat scratching her ears or shaking her head if she has mites. Look inside your cat’s ears and check for mites, which look similar to coffee grounds. She experience other symptoms such as darkened ear wax, redness or a strong odor. The blood vessels in your cat’s ears can rupture from too much scratching or head shaking. An ear mite infection is easily treated but your cat will require medical attention. Follow up care usually includes cleaning your cat’s ears with a cat-safe ear rinse and inserting antibiotic drops or other medications in the ear canal until treatment is complete. Check all the other animals in your household for symptoms of ear mites. For more information, contact your Greensboro, NC veterinarian.