How can a cat's ears be cured of ear mites? - briefly
Clean the ears with a veterinarian‑approved solution and apply a prescribed anti‑mite medication such as ivermectin, selamectin, or milbemycin. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to confirm complete elimination.
How can a cat's ears be cured of ear mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in felines requires a systematic approach: confirmation, eradication, and prevention.
First, verify the presence of parasites. Typical signs include dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds, frequent scratching, head shaking, and inflammation. A veterinary otoscopic examination or microscopic analysis of ear swabs provides definitive identification.
Second, perform thorough cleaning. Warm a saline solution (0.9 % NaCl) or a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser. Gently fill the canal, massage the base of the ear to loosen debris, then allow the cat to shake. Use cotton balls or gauze to wipe visible material; avoid inserting objects deep into the canal.
Third, apply appropriate acaricidal medication. Options include:
- Topical ivermectin (0.5 % solution) – few drops per ear, repeat after 7 days.
- Selamectin – spot‑on formulation applied to the skin at the base of the skull, effective against ear mites and other parasites.
- Milbemycin oxime – oral dose, useful when topical treatment is contraindicated.
- Lime sulfur dip – 2 % solution, applied for 5‑10 minutes, then rinsed; effective but may cause odor.
Follow the product’s dosing schedule strictly; many protocols require a second application one week later to eliminate any newly hatched larvae.
Fourth, monitor progress. Re‑examine the ears after treatment completion. Persistent debris or irritation may indicate incomplete eradication or secondary infection, requiring additional cleaning or antibiotic therapy.
Finally, implement preventative measures. Regular ear inspections, routine grooming, and periodic administration of broad‑spectrum parasite preventatives reduce the risk of recurrence. Maintaining a clean environment—frequent laundering of bedding and vacuuming—limits re‑infestation from residual eggs.
By adhering to diagnosis, meticulous cleaning, correct medication, and ongoing prevention, ear mite problems in cats can be resolved efficiently.