Ear mite in a kitten: how to treat it? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) applied as directed, and clean the ear canal with a mild ear cleanser before treatment. Repeat the medication course according to the vet’s schedule to ensure complete eradication.
Ear mite in a kitten: how to treat it? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in young cats presents with frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, and a dark, waxy discharge that may smell foul. The parasite, Otodectes cynotis, lives on the skin of the external ear canal and feeds on tissue fluids, causing inflammation and secondary infections if left untreated. Veterinary examination, often aided by otoscopic inspection or microscopic examination of ear debris, confirms the diagnosis.
Effective therapy relies on a combination of acaricidal medication and thorough ear cleaning. Recommended options include:
- Topical solutions containing pyrethrins, selamectin, or moxidectin, applied directly into each ear canal according to the product label.
- Systemic treatments such as ivermectin or milbemycin oxime, administered orally or by injection, which eliminate mites throughout the body.
- Prescription ear drops with milbemycin or a combination of anti‑inflammatory and antiparasitic agents for severe inflammation.
Cleaning the ear canal before medication improves drug contact. Procedure:
- Warm a sterile cotton ball with saline or a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaner.
- Gently wipe visible debris from the outer ear; avoid inserting objects deep into the canal.
- Allow the kitten to shake its head, then repeat until the ear appears clear of crusts.
- Apply the prescribed medication immediately after cleaning, following the recommended dosage interval.
After the initial treatment course, repeat the medication for the duration specified—typically 2–4 weeks—to eradicate any newly hatched mites. Re‑examination of the ears confirms resolution; absence of debris and cessation of head shaking indicate success. Regular grooming, avoidance of contact with infested animals, and routine ear inspections reduce the risk of recurrence.