How to quickly treat ear mites in cats?

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How to quickly treat ear mites in cats? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑prescribed topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin or ivermectin) directly into the cleaned ear canal and follow the product’s dosing schedule. Administer a repeat dose after 7–10 days to eliminate any remaining mites.

How to quickly treat ear mites in cats? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) infest the external auditory canal, causing intense itching, dark debris, and secondary infections. Prompt eradication prevents discomfort and long‑term damage to the tympanic membrane.
Diagnosis and initial assessment

Visual inspection of the ear canal with a otoscope; look for pepper‑like debris and live mites.
Collect a sample on a cotton swab; examine under a microscope to confirm presence.
Check both ears, as infestation is usually bilateral.

Immediate therapeutic steps

Cleaning

Warm a saline solution (0.9 % NaCl) to body temperature.
Gently irrigate each ear with a syringe, allowing the fluid to loosen debris.
Use a soft gauze or cotton ball to wipe the outer canal; avoid inserting objects deep into the canal to prevent trauma.

Topical acaricide application

Apply a veterinarian‑approved ear mite medication (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin, or milbemycin formulations) according to the label dosage.
For liquid preparations, instill the recommended volume into the ear canal, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the product.
Repeat the dose after 7 days to ensure any newly hatched mites are eliminated.

Adjunct anti‑inflammatory and antimicrobial agents

If inflammation is severe, a short course of corticosteroid ear drops can reduce swelling.
When secondary bacterial or yeast infection is evident, add a broad‑spectrum antibiotic/antifungal ear solution (e.g., enrofloxacin with nystatin).

Supportive care

Keep the cat in a clean environment; wash bedding, toys, and grooming tools with hot water.
Treat all other pets in the household with the same acaricide protocol to prevent reinfestation.
Monitor for adverse reactions (e.g., excessive redness, discharge) and consult a veterinarian if they occur.

Follow‑up

Re‑examine the ears after the second treatment; absence of debris and mites confirms resolution.
Conduct a final otoscopic check 2–3 weeks later to rule out recurrence.

By combining thorough ear cleaning, a proven topical acaricide regimen, and appropriate anti‑inflammatory or antimicrobial support, ear mite infestations can be eliminated rapidly and safely.