How does an ear mite manifest? - briefly
Ear mite infestations typically produce intense itching, frequent head shaking, and a dark, waxy discharge resembling coffee grounds within the ear canal. Inflammation, redness, and secondary bacterial infection may also develop if the condition remains untreated.
How does an ear mite manifest? - in detail
Ear mites, primarily Otodectes cynotis, colonize the external auditory canal and surrounding hair follicles. Their presence produces a distinct set of clinical signs that develop rapidly after infestation.
The most immediate indicator is intense scratching or head shaking, caused by irritation of the ear canal skin. A thick, dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris accumulates on the outer ear and within the canal; this material consists of mite bodies, eggs, and excretions. The debris often adheres to the hair and can be removed with a cotton swab, revealing a greasy, malodorous residue.
Inflammation follows, manifesting as erythema and swelling of the ear canal walls. In severe cases, the skin may ulcerate, leading to bleeding and secondary bacterial infection. The affected ear may appear reddened, and the canal can become narrowed due to edema or crust formation.
Mite activity can be confirmed by microscopic examination of the debris. Live, moving mites are visible as tiny, oval organisms with four pairs of legs. Their life cycle—egg, larva, nymph, adult—occurs entirely on the host, so all stages may be present in the sample.
If left untreated, chronic irritation can cause hyperkeratosis, thickening of the ear canal skin, and permanent hearing loss. The contralateral ear frequently becomes involved within days, and infestations often spread to other animals in the same environment.
Key points for identification:
- Persistent head shaking and ear scratching
- Dark, coffee‑ground debris in the ear
- Redness, swelling, and possible ulceration of the canal
- Presence of live mites or eggs on microscopic slide
- Rapid progression to bilateral involvement and secondary infection if unmanaged
Prompt removal of debris, topical acaricidal treatment, and cleaning of the environment are essential to halt the infestation and prevent lasting damage.