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Are pyrethrin drops, shampoo, or Frontline safe for kitten ear mites?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 22 days old | 5 lbs

I was given pyrethin ear drops for my kittens ear mites. How do I use it and should I also use a pyrethin shampoo? How about frontline?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

I would caution using pyrethrin products in cats. If your vet gave you the ear drops for the mites then I would follow their instructions. If a vet didn't give you the ear drops, do not use them. Pyrethrins are toxic to cats. Do not use any shampoo on a cat that doesn't say specifically on the label that it can be used in cats.

Frontline is safe in cats but I would suggest using revolution since Revolution gets ear mites.

I hope this helps and I wish Pocus the best!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 12th, 2018
Hello. I would be a little cautious using any pyrethrins in such a young kitten, especially with a previous toxicity. You are much better off seeing your veterinarian to first make sure that you need to treat Ally for ear mites, & secondly, using another, safer product like selamectin ( Revolution ). This would be much safer for her. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on June 22nd, 2018
I recommend you contact your vet to confirm the multiple medications and directions. Ear mites in most cases are quite easy to eliminate - thorough cleansing with an ear cleaner will remove the wax and majority of ear mites and stronghold is e,ffective against remaining mites. I am not familiar with the brands available in your area but a search for 'mitex' appears that some do and some don't contain pyrethroids. Cats are sensitive to pyrethroid products but the small dose used in ears, when necessary rarely causes significant side effects. Until you can confirm the full prescription I would apply the stronghold and cleanse the ears with epiotic
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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