The same mite can affect both cats and dogs. In the puppy and kitten the most common ear mite is Otodectes cynotis . It is not important in the diagnosis and treatment of ear mites to identify the exact scientific type of mite. Regardless of the exact mite species involved, we usually refer to mites of the ear canal simply as ear mites. Contrary to popular belief, however, is the fact that ear mites can live anywhere on the animal's body.
Ear mites are extremely contagious.
They can be passed from the mother animal to her offspring. Additionally, the mites are easily spread to other pets within the household including cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets, etc. Humans are not affected. The amount of scratching and shaking depends on the severity of the mite infestation . With more advanced infestation, the ear canals will bleed and either fresh or dried blood will appear inside the canal.