How and with what can an ear mite in a cat be treated? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved topical acaricide—such as selamectin, moxidectin, or a lime‑sulfur dip—to the affected ear(s) following the product’s dosage schedule, and clean the canal with a veterinarian‑recommended ear cleanser to remove debris. In some cases, a single oral dose of ivermectin or a similar systemic antiparasitic may be prescribed to ensure complete eradication.
How and with what can an ear mite in a cat be treated? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) infest the external auditory canal, causing intense pruritus, dark ear discharge, and frequent head shaking. Prompt intervention eliminates the parasites, prevents secondary infection, and reduces the risk of transmission to other animals.
The first step is thorough cleaning of the ear canal. Apply a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser, massage the base of the ear for 30–60 seconds, then allow the cat to drain. Repeat until visible debris is removed; this improves contact of medication with the mites.
Topical acaricides are the cornerstone of therapy. Commonly used products include:
- Selamectin (0.8 mg/kg, spot‑on, monthly) – broad‑spectrum, safe for most cats, eliminates mites within one application.
- Ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg, topical or injectable) – effective but may cause neurotoxicity in certain breeds; dosage must be precise.
- Moxidectin (1 mg/kg, spot‑on, every 30 days) – long‑acting, high efficacy against otodectic mites.
- Milbemycin oxime (2 mg/kg, oral, daily for 7 days) – systemic treatment that reaches the ear canal via bloodstream.
When topical agents are contraindicated, oral medications provide an alternative. Products containing sarolaner, afoxolaner, or fluralaner are administered at label‑specified doses and achieve complete eradication after a single dose or a short course.
Adjunctive therapy may include:
- Antibacterial or antifungal ear drops if secondary infection is present; select agents based on culture results.
- Anti‑inflammatory drugs (e.g., prednisolone) for severe inflammation, prescribed for the shortest effective period.
- Environmental decontamination: wash bedding, clean grooming tools, and treat all cohabiting animals with the same acaricide to prevent reinfestation.
Treatment schedule typically follows a 7‑ to 14‑day interval to cover the mite life cycle. Re‑examination after two weeks confirms parasite clearance; a follow‑up ear cleaning may be required. Persistent signs warrant repeat treatment or alternative medication.
Owners should monitor for adverse reactions such as excessive sedation, vomiting, or skin irritation. Any adverse event requires immediate veterinary consultation. Regular preventive applications, as recommended by the veterinarian, maintain protection against future infestations.