How long to treat ear mites in cats? - briefly
Treatment usually lasts 2 – 4 weeks, depending on the medication and infestation severity. Follow the veterinarian‑recommended schedule and re‑examine the ears after the final dose to confirm eradication.
How long to treat ear mites in cats? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in felines progresses through a rapid life cycle: eggs hatch within 3‑5 days, larvae become infectious after 2‑3 days, and adult mites survive 4‑6 weeks. Because the parasite reproduces continuously, therapeutic regimens must cover several generations to eradicate the population.
Effective management relies on topical acaricides, systemic medications, or a combination. Products such as selamectin, moxidectin, or pyrethrin‑based ear drops are applied according to label instructions. Systemic agents are usually given as a single dose, while topical formulations require repeated applications.
The minimum treatment interval spans 2 weeks. A typical schedule includes:
- Day 0: first dose of the chosen product
- Day 7 ± 2 days: second dose (if the product specifies a repeat)
- Day 14 ± 2 days: final dose or confirmation of clearance
Extending treatment to 3 weeks is advisable when heavy infestations are present or when ear debris hampers drug penetration. After the last application, a follow‑up examination at 2 weeks should verify the absence of live mites.
Resolution indicators include a clean ear canal, absence of dark debris, and lack of pruritus. Otoscopic inspection can confirm that no motile mites remain. If any signs persist, an additional treatment cycle of 7‑10 days is warranted.
Special cases—such as kittens under 8 weeks, immunocompromised cats, or concurrent ear infections—may require adjusted dosages or adjunctive antimicrobial therapy. Veterinary guidance ensures appropriate selection of agents and prevents resistance development.