How should ear mites in an animal be treated? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑prescribed topical acaricide, such as «selamectin» or «ivermectin», directly into the ear canal according to label dosage and schedule. Clean the ear gently, repeat the treatment after the mite life cycle (approximately 7‑10 days), and monitor for resolution.
How should ear mites in an animal be treated? - in detail
Ear mites, primarily Otodectes cynotis, infest the external auditory canal of cats, dogs, and small mammals. Infestation produces intense pruritus, dark ceruminous discharge, and a characteristic “mousy” odor. Early detection prevents secondary bacterial or fungal otitis.
Diagnosis relies on visual inspection with an otoscope and microscopic evaluation of ear swabs. Identification of live mites, eggs, or fecal pellets confirms the condition and guides treatment choice.
Effective management combines pharmacologic therapy, environmental sanitation, and follow‑up.
Topical acaricides
- Selamectin %0.8 solution: apply 1 ml per ear weekly for three consecutive weeks.
- Moxidectin %0.1 solution: apply 0.2 ml per ear weekly for three weeks.
- Lime‑sulfur dip (2 %): soak ears for 5 minutes, repeat weekly for three weeks.
- Propylene glycol %10 spray: apply daily for five days, then weekly for two weeks.
Systemic agents
- Ivermectin oral paste: dose 0.2 mg/kg once, repeat after 14 days.
- Milbemycin oxime chewable tablet: dose 0.5 mg/kg monthly for three months.
- Afoxolaner chewable tablet: dose 2.5 mg/kg, repeat after 30 days.
- Fluralaner spot‑on: single dose 25 mg/kg, repeat after 12 weeks.
Environmental control
- Launder bedding, blankets, and toys at ≥ 60 °C.
- Vacuum carpet and upholstery; discard vacuum bag after use.
- Treat all co‑habiting animals with the same acaricidal regimen.
- Apply a diluted lime‑sulfur solution to cages, crates, and grooming tools.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine ears 14 days after initial treatment; repeat otoscopic assessment.
- If live mites persist, administer a second round of the chosen topical or systemic protocol.
- Continue monitoring for at least six weeks to ensure complete eradication.
Adhering to the outlined protocol eliminates ear mite populations, alleviates clinical signs, and minimizes recurrence.