How should ear mites in rabbits be treated? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑prescribed acaricide—such as selamectin, ivermectin, or moxidectin—applied according to label dosage, and cleanse the ear canal with a gentle antiseptic solution to remove debris. Repeat treatment as directed and monitor for resolution.
How should ear mites in rabbits be treated? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in rabbits, caused primarily by Psoroptes cuniculi or Otodectes cynotis, produces intense pruritus, dark crusts, and a characteristic foul odor within the ear canal. Early recognition prevents secondary bacterial infections and chronic ear damage.
Diagnosis relies on otoscopic examination, identification of live mites or ova on a microscopic slide, and assessment of inflammatory debris. Absence of mites does not exclude infestation; repeated sampling may be required.
Effective management combines mechanical cleaning, topical acaricide application, and, when indicated, systemic therapy. The protocol includes:
- Ear canal debridement – gentle flushing with a warm saline solution removes crusts and facilitates drug contact.
- Topical acaricides – apply a product containing ivermectin (1 % solution) or selamectin (0.8 % solution) directly into the ear canal once daily for three consecutive days; repeat after two weeks to eliminate residual life stages.
- Systemic treatment – administer oral ivermectin at 0.2 mg/kg once, repeat in two weeks; alternatively, use milbemycin oxime at 0.5 mg/kg orally for three consecutive days.
- Anti‑inflammatory support – a short course of NSAIDs (e.g., meloxicam 0.2 mg/kg once daily for three days) reduces pain and swelling.
- Antibiotic coverage – if secondary bacterial infection is evident, initiate a broad‑spectrum agent such as enrofloxacin 10 mg/kg subcutaneously once daily for five days.
Preventive measures focus on hygiene and environmental control: clean bedding weekly, avoid contact with infested animals, and perform routine ear inspections during veterinary visits. Regular application of a preventive topical formulation (e.g., selamectin) at the recommended interval maintains protection against re‑infestation.