How can you remove mites from a dog's ear? - briefly
Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser and apply an acaricidal medication such as selamectin or ivermectin as prescribed. Follow the product’s dosing schedule and repeat treatment as directed to eliminate the infestation.
How can you remove mites from a dog's ear? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) infest the external auditory canal, causing irritation, dark debris and secondary infection. Effective eradication requires a systematic approach: diagnosis, medication, cleaning, and follow‑up.
First, confirm the presence of mites. Look for a black‑brown waxy material (cerumen) that resembles coffee grounds, and observe the dog scratching or shaking its head. A veterinary otoscopic examination or microscopic slide of the debris will reveal the parasites.
Once identified, apply an appropriate acaricide. Common options include:
- Topical otic solutions containing pyrethrins, selamectin, milbemycin oxime, or moxidectin. Follow the label dosage based on the dog’s weight; administer the full course, typically once daily for 3‑5 days.
- Systemic medications such as ivermectin or milbemycin tablets when topical treatment is contraindicated. Prescription is required; dosage must be exact.
- Prescription ear drops that combine an acaricide with anti‑inflammatory or antibacterial agents to address concurrent otitis.
After medication, clean the ear canal to remove debris and allow the drug to reach the mites:
- Warm a sterile saline or commercial ear‑cleaning solution to body temperature.
- Gently fill the ear canal with the solution, allowing it to sit for 30‑60 seconds.
- Massage the base of the ear to loosen wax and debris.
- Use a soft, lint‑free gauze pad to wipe the visible excess; avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the canal, which can damage the tympanic membrane.
Repeat the cleaning process each day during treatment, or as directed by the veterinarian. Ensure the dog’s environment is also treated: wash bedding, clean the living area, and vacuum carpets to eliminate fallen mites and prevent reinfestation.
Schedule a re‑examination 7‑10 days after the initial therapy. The veterinarian will reassess the ear canal, possibly repeat microscopy, and confirm that no live mites remain. If signs persist, extend treatment or switch to an alternative acaricide.
Preventive measures include regular ear inspections, routine cleaning for breeds prone to otitis, and maintaining a flea‑control program, as fleas can serve as carriers for ear mites.