Otodectes cynotis in urban and peri-urban semi-arid areas: a widespread parasite in the cat population

The ear mite Otodectes cynotis is a parasite of cats and dogs of considerable veterinary importance, being the most common etiological agent of otitis externa in pets. This study investigates the presence of this parasite in 296 cats from Murcia municipality (SE Spain), and describes possible factors associated with the infestation. Cats were grouped by sex, age, lifestyle, season and provenience. Scraping samples were examined by a microscope to identify the mite. Chi square test was computed and odds ratio was used to measure the association of risk factors with parasite prevalence. Additionally, the spatial distribution of prevalences was investigated and represented through GIS software. Around 30% of the cats (CI₉₅ 25–35%) were found positives to O. cynotis. The mite infestation was significantly higher in adult cats, during the winter and in individuals from peri-urban areas. The ectoparasite was found to be widely distributed in the cat population of the study area, with an increased risk of infestation in specific peri-urban areas. The results highlight that O. cynotis is a common parasite in areas with Mediterranean semi-arid climate. Given the importance of otodectic mange, and considering that O. cynotis is not a parasite specific to cats, but may also affect dogs and wild carnivores, the information provided by this study is of great value to both pet owners and veterinarian practitioners, and it might help to implement appropriate preventive and control strategies, mainly in free-roaming cats.