How to fight ear mites in rabbits? - briefly
First, clean the infected ear with a veterinarian‑approved solution to remove wax and debris. Then apply a topical acaricide such as selamectin or ivermectin according to the prescribed dosing schedule, repeating treatment as directed to eradicate the mites.
How to fight ear mites in rabbits? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in rabbits require prompt identification, appropriate medication, and environmental sanitation.
Clinical signs include intense scratching, head shaking, dark crusts or debris in the ear canal, and possible secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis is confirmed by visual inspection of the ear canal and microscopic examination of the debris for characteristic oval-shaped mites.
Effective treatment protocol:
- Topical acaricide – Apply a veterinary‑approved ear mite medication (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin, or pyrethrin‑based drops). Follow the label dosage, typically one drop per ear for a rabbit weighing up to 2 kg, repeated after 7–10 days to break the life cycle.
- Ear cleaning – Prior to medication, gently flush the ear with a warm saline solution or a veterinary‑approved ear cleanser. Use a soft gauze pad to remove crusts, avoiding deep insertion that could damage the tympanic membrane.
- Systemic therapy – In severe cases, administer an oral or injectable acaricide (e.g., ivermectin at 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously) under veterinary supervision. Repeat dosing after 14 days to eradicate larvae.
- Antibiotic support – If bacterial otitis is present, prescribe an appropriate antibiotic (e.g., enrofloxacin) based on culture results or empirical guidelines.
- Environmental control – Wash bedding, cages, and any fabric accessories in hot water (≥60 °C). Disinfect the enclosure with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) and allow thorough drying before re‑housing the rabbit.
- Preventive measures – Schedule routine ear examinations every 3 months for breeding or show rabbits. Apply a low‑dose acaricide prophylactically during high‑risk seasons, as advised by a veterinarian.
Monitoring after treatment:
- Re‑examine the ears 7 days post‑application; absence of debris and reduced scratching indicate efficacy.
- Conduct a second microscopic check 14 days after the initial treatment to confirm eradication.
- Continue observation for at least 4 weeks; any recurrence warrants a repeat treatment cycle and possible adjustment of medication.
Proper handling, accurate dosing, and strict hygiene are essential to eliminate ear mites and prevent reinfestation in rabbit populations.