How to administer drops to a cat's ears for mites? - briefly
Clean the ear canal with a damp cotton ball, then gently dispense the prescribed number of «ear drops» into the ear while massaging the base for about 30 seconds to ensure distribution. Repeat the procedure on the opposite ear and adhere to the veterinarian‑recommended dosing schedule.
How to administer drops to a cat's ears for mites? - in detail
Treating ear mites in a cat requires precise application of the prescribed ear‑drop solution. Follow each step to maximize efficacy and minimize discomfort.
Prepare the cat and the medication.
• Choose a quiet room, close doors to limit escape routes.
• Gather the dropper, a clean cotton ball, and a towel for restraint.
• Warm the bottle in the palm for 30 seconds; cold fluid can cause vasoconstriction and reduce absorption.
Secure the animal.
- Place the cat on a stable surface, preferably a table covered with a non‑slip mat.
- Wrap the cat gently with a towel, leaving the head exposed. This “towel‑hug” limits sudden movements without causing stress.
Inspect the ear.
• Look for dark debris, crust, or a foul odor—signs of active infestation.
• Clean the outer canal with a damp cotton ball; avoid inserting cotton deep into the ear canal, which can damage the tympanic membrane.
Administer the drops.
- Hold the ear upright with one hand, pulling the flap (pinna) slightly back to expose the canal.
- Insert the dropper tip just inside the opening, not deeper than 2 mm.
- Release the recommended dose (usually 1–2 drops) into the canal.
- Keep the ear held upright for 30 seconds to allow the medicine to coat the inner surfaces.
Post‑application care.
• Gently massage the base of the ear for a few seconds to distribute the solution.
• Repeat the procedure on the opposite ear, even if symptoms appear unilateral; mites often infest both sides.
• Dispose of used cotton and wash hands thoroughly.
Follow‑up.
• Administer the medication at the interval specified by the veterinarian, commonly once daily for 7–14 days.
• Re‑examine the ears after the treatment course; persistent debris may indicate secondary infection requiring additional therapy.
«Correct technique prevents spillage, ensures full canal coverage, and reduces the risk of reinfestation». Adhering to these steps supports rapid resolution of mite infestation and promotes ear health.