How should ear mites in cats be treated, and which medications should be used? - briefly
Effective control requires thorough cleaning of the ear canal followed by a topical acaricide such as selamectin, moxidectin, or a lime‑sulfur dip. Prescription products containing ivermectin or milbemycin may be used under veterinary supervision.
How should ear mites in cats be treated, and which medications should be used? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in felines require prompt and thorough eradication to prevent secondary infections and discomfort. The primary causative organism, Otodectes cynotis, resides in the external auditory canal, feeding on wax and skin debris. Effective management combines topical acaricides, systemic agents, and supportive care.
Topical acaricides are the cornerstone of treatment. Recommended products include:
• Selamectin (0.8 mg/kg, applied once to the base of the ears, repeat after 30 days) – broad‑spectrum, safe for kittens ≥ 4 weeks.
• Moxidectin (1 mg/kg, single application to the ear canal, repeat after 14 days) – potent against resistant strains.
• Ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg, administered as a single ear drop, repeat after 7 days) – effective but requires careful dosing in breeds sensitive to macrocyclic lactones.
• Lufenuron (10 mg/kg, oral, daily for 14 days) – interferes with mite development, used adjunctively.
Systemic therapy may be indicated when topical agents are contraindicated or when extensive otitis is present. Options include:
1. Milbemycin oxime (0.5 mg/kg, oral, single dose) – eliminates mites and provides prophylaxis against heartworm and intestinal parasites.
2. Spinosad (30 mg/kg, oral, single dose) – rapid mite kill, minimal side effects.
Supportive measures enhance recovery:
- Clean the ear canal with a veterinary‑approved cerumen remover before applying medication to improve drug contact.
- Monitor for bacterial or yeast overgrowth; if present, introduce an appropriate antimicrobial ear drop (e.g., a combination of polymyxin B, neomycin, and hydrocortisone).
- Re‑examine the cat after the treatment interval to confirm mite elimination; repeat ear cytology if necessary.
Owner education should stress the importance of completing the full treatment schedule, even if clinical signs improve early, to avoid recurrence. Environmental control—washing bedding, cleaning surfaces, and treating all cohabiting animals—prevents reinfestation.