How should I treat an ear mite in a cat? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved ear medication (e.g., a topical acaricide) after gently cleaning the canal with an appropriate ear cleanser, following the prescribed dosing schedule. Treat all cats in the household and repeat the course as directed to eliminate reinfestation.
How should I treat an ear mite in a cat? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) cause inflammation, dark debris, and itching in the auditory canal of cats. Prompt, thorough treatment prevents secondary infections and eliminates the parasite from the household.
Initial assessment should include a visual examination of the ear canal with an otoscope. Look for a brown‑black waxy material that resembles coffee grounds and note any erythema or swelling. If mites are confirmed, begin a two‑phase protocol: cleaning and medication.
Cleaning procedure
- Warm a sterile saline solution or a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to body temperature.
- Apply a few drops into the affected ear, gently massage the base of the pinna for 30 seconds to loosen debris.
- Allow the cat to shake its head; then use gauze or a cotton ball to wipe away visible material.
- Repeat on the opposite ear if signs are present.
- Perform the cleaning once daily for three consecutive days before starting topical treatment.
Pharmacologic options
- Topical acaricides: products containing selamectin, milbemycin oxime, or pyrethrins (e.g., Revolution, Advantage Multi, or a pyrethrin‑based spray). Apply as directed, usually a single dose with a repeat after 7 days to kill newly hatched mites.
- Systemic medications: oral ivermectin or milbemycin may be prescribed for severe infestations or when topical agents are contraindicated. Dosage follows the veterinarian’s weight‑based guidelines.
- Prescription ear drops: formulations with moxidectin or a combination of antiparasitic and anti‑inflammatory agents provide rapid relief of itching and reduce ear canal swelling.
Adjunctive care
- Administer a short course of broad‑spectrum antibiotics if bacterial otitis develops, based on culture results or clinical judgment.
- Use an anti‑inflammatory (e.g., corticosteroid ear drops) only when inflammation impedes cleaning or medication absorption.
- Monitor for adverse reactions such as excessive sedation, vomiting, or skin irritation; report any concerns to the veterinary professional promptly.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or replace them.
- Vacuum carpets, curtains, and furniture to remove detached mites and eggs.
- Treat all cohabiting animals with the same acaricidal regimen, even if asymptomatic, to prevent reinfestation.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the ears 10–14 days after the initial treatment. Absence of debris and normal ear canal coloration indicate success.
- Conduct a final otoscopic check at 4 weeks to confirm eradication. If mites persist, repeat the full protocol and consider alternative medications.
A disciplined cleaning schedule, appropriate acaricidal therapy, and thorough decontamination of the environment together ensure complete elimination of ear mites and restore ear health in cats.