Yes, indoor cats can get ear mites , even if they never go outside.

How indoor cats catch ear mites

Ear mites are highly contagious parasites that spread mainly through direct contact with an infected animal, but they can also hitch a ride indoors in less obvious ways. Common routes for indoor‑only cats include:

  • A new cat, kitten, or foster pet that already has mites.
  • Another pet in the home (dog or outdoor‑access cat) that brings mites inside.
  • Shared bedding, toys, or grooming tools that briefly harbor mites.
  • Visits to boarding, grooming, or the vet where other infested pets are present.

Signs your indoor cat might have ear mites

Watch for these symptoms, especially if your cat suddenly starts bothering its ears:

  • Frequent scratching or rubbing of the ears.
  • Head shaking or tilting.
  • Dark, crumbly, “coffee‑ground–like” discharge in the ears.
  • Redness, swelling, or a foul odor from the ears.
  • Hair loss or scabs around the ears from scratching.

What to do if you suspect ear mites

  • See a vet : Ear mites look a lot like infections or simple wax buildup, so a vet exam (often with an otoscope) is needed for a proper diagnosis.
  • Follow prescribed treatment : This usually involves ear‑cleaning plus medicated drops or topical treatments for several weeks to kill all life stages of the mites.
  • Treat all pets in the home : Because mites are so contagious, vets often recommend treating every cat (and sometimes dogs) at the same time.

Simple prevention tips for indoor cats

  • Check your cat’s ears regularly, especially after bringing in a new pet or after boarding/grooming.
  • Wash bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot, soapy water and vacuum frequently.
  • Keep wellness visits on schedule so your vet can catch issues early.

If you tell me your cat’s age, whether you have other pets, and what you’re seeing in the ears, I can help you draft what to tell your vet or what questions to ask. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.