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Adopted kitten scratching ears with dirt. Is it ear mites? How to clean?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 2 lbs

I adopted a 3 month old kitten from a shelter who found her in a dumpster. shes has flea and tick shots and dewormed. shes been scratching her ears and has dirt in them. no scabs no puss. is this just dirt from being in a dumpster or ear mites? how do i clean it?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on July 3rd, 2018

Hi there. I would be very suspicious that Willow has ear mites. They are microscopic so you can not tell for sure without a microscopic exam of the ear debris. I would highly encourage you to call the shelter you adopted her from as they will usually continue to care for any health problems within a certain length of time after adoption. If not then I would encourage you to have her evaluated by a veterinarian soon. In my experience over the counter ear mite medication is not very effective and just prolongs the problem. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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