How should ear mites in a cat be treated?

How should ear mites in a cat be treated? - briefly

Use a veterinarian‑prescribed topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, milbemycin) together with careful ear cleaning to eradicate the mites. Follow the product’s repeat schedule and maintain a clean environment to prevent reinfestation.

How should ear mites in a cat be treated? - in detail

Ear mite infestations in felines require prompt identification and a systematic treatment plan. The parasite, typically Otodectes cynotis, resides in the external auditory canal, causing irritation, inflammation, and secondary infections if left unchecked.

Diagnosis is confirmed by visual inspection of the ear canal and microscopic examination of ear debris. Look for dark, crumbly material resembling coffee grounds and note any erythema or excess wax.

Treatment proceeds in three phases: medication, cleaning, and follow‑up.

• Medication

  • Topical acaricides such as selamectin, milbemycin oxime, or moxidectin are applied directly into the ear canal according to the product label.
  • Systemic treatments (e.g., ivermectin, doramectin) may be prescribed for severe cases or when topical agents are contraindicated.
  • Prescription ear drops containing pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or lime sulfur provide rapid mite eradication; follow the dosing schedule precisely.

• Ear cleaning

  • Prior to each medication application, gently flush the ear with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove debris and improve drug contact.
  • Use a soft gauze or cotton ball; avoid inserting objects deep into the canal to prevent trauma.
  • Dry the ear thoroughly after cleaning to reduce moisture that favors bacterial growth.

• Follow‑up

  • Re‑examine the cat 7–10 days after the initial treatment to verify mite elimination.
  • Perform a second cleaning and medication course if microscopic analysis still detects live mites.
  • Continue monitoring for at least four weeks to catch any reinfestation early.

Prevention relies on regular ear hygiene and controlling exposure to other infested animals. Routine ear checks during veterinary visits, maintaining clean living environments, and using prophylactic topical products for multi‑cat households diminish recurrence risk.