How to apply Stronghold for ear tick? - briefly
Clean the ear canal, then place a few drops of Stronghold directly onto the tick, ensuring full contact with the parasite; keep the animal still for several minutes to allow absorption. This method quickly immobilizes and eliminates the ear tick.
How to apply Stronghold for ear tick? - in detail
Stronghold (ivermectin) is a topical formulation used to eliminate ear ticks in dogs and cats. The product is supplied as a 1% solution in a dropper bottle. Application requires precise measurement and careful placement to ensure the medication reaches the affected area without contaminating surrounding skin.
- Gather supplies – Stronghold bottle, disposable gloves, clean cotton swabs, a towel, and a restraining device if the animal is uncooperative.
- Prepare the animal – Calm the pet, examine the ear for visible ticks, debris, or excessive wax. If wax is present, gently clean the canal with a cotton swab moistened with warm water; avoid deep insertion.
- Determine dose – The label provides dosage tables based on weight. For a dog weighing 10 kg, the recommended dose is 0.2 ml; for a cat weighing 4 kg, 0.1 ml. Use the calibrated dropper to draw the exact volume.
- Administer the medication – With gloves on, hold the ear flap upright to expose the canal. Place the dropper tip at the entrance and dispense the measured dose directly into the ear canal, allowing the solution to flow toward the base. Do not inject into the middle ear.
- Massage the base – Gently massage the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the drug across the canal walls and improve absorption.
- Observe for adverse reactions – Monitor for signs of irritation, excessive scratching, or swelling within the first hour. Minor redness may occur; severe inflammation warrants veterinary consultation.
- Repeat as directed – The label advises a second application 7 days after the first to eradicate any newly hatched ticks. Maintain the schedule precisely; deviation reduces efficacy.
- Prevent reinfestation – Clean the environment, treat bedding, and apply a regular ectoparasite control program.
Safety considerations include avoiding contact with the animal’s eyes, mouth, or open wounds. Do not use Stronghold on pregnant or lactating females without veterinary approval. Store the bottle at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children.
Following these steps ensures the topical ivermectin reaches the ear tick habitat, delivering therapeutic concentrations that interrupt the parasite’s nervous transmission, leading to rapid death and removal of the infestation.