How should a dog's ears be treated for mites? - briefly
Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑recommended cleanser, then apply an approved topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) according to the product’s dosing schedule. Follow up with a veterinary re‑examination to confirm eradication and prevent reinfestation.
How should a dog's ears be treated for mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in canines, caused primarily by «Otodectes cynotis», produces intense itching, dark discharge and inflammation within the ear canal. Early identification relies on visual inspection of debris and microscopic confirmation of mites.
Effective management proceeds in three stages:
- Mechanical cleaning – Soak the ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution, allow it to penetrate for 2–3 minutes, then gently flush using a syringe. Remove excess wax and debris with a soft gauze pad. Repeat until the canal appears clear.
- Pharmacological therapy – Apply a topical acaricide (e.g., «selamectin», «moxidectin», «milbemycin») directly into the ear canal according to the label dosage. In severe cases, supplement with an oral systemic agent (e.g., «ivermectin» or «milbemycin oxime») to eradicate mites residing in deeper tissues.
- Environmental control – Wash bedding, toys and grooming tools in hot water; treat the household environment with a suitable insecticide spray if secondary infestation is suspected. Repeat cleaning and medication after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched mites.
Monitoring includes re‑examination of the ear canal after the second treatment cycle. Absence of debris and negative microscopic slides confirm resolution. Persistent inflammation warrants a follow‑up for secondary bacterial or fungal infection, which may require additional antimicrobial therapy.
Preventive measures consist of regular ear inspections during routine health checks, maintaining dry ear conditions, and administering prophylactic acaricidal preventatives on a monthly schedule for dogs with a history of mite exposure.