How to recognize ear mites in a dog? - briefly
Look for dark, crumbly debris that looks like coffee grounds in the ear canal, together with frequent scratching, head shaking, and a strong odor. Inflammation, redness, and yellow‑ or black‑tinged discharge also indicate an infestation.
How to recognize ear mites in a dog? - in detail
Ear mites are microscopic parasites that inhabit the external ear canal of dogs. They feed on skin debris and secretions, causing irritation and inflammation. Early detection prevents secondary infections and discomfort.
Typical indicators include:
- Dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris accumulating in the ear canal.
- Intense scratching or head shaking.
- Redness or swelling of the ear flap and canal walls.
- Unpleasant odor emanating from the ears.
- Visible movement of tiny, white or grayish organisms when the ear is examined under magnification.
A systematic examination helps confirm their presence. Gently lift the ear flap and use a bright light or otoscope to inspect the canal. Look for the characteristic debris and any live mites. If the material is difficult to see, a cotton swab can collect a sample for microscopic analysis. Laboratory confirmation involves placing a few drops of the debris on a glass slide and examining it at 100–400× magnification; mites appear as oval, translucent bodies with four legs near the front.
Additional diagnostic steps may include:
- Cytology: Staining the sample to differentiate mites from bacterial or fungal elements.
- Audiometry: Assessing hearing loss that may accompany chronic infestations.
- Culture: Ruling out secondary bacterial or yeast infections that often develop alongside mite colonization.
Prompt treatment, typically with topical acaricidal agents, should be initiated once identification is confirmed. Follow‑up examinations after 7–10 days verify eradication, and a second treatment may be required to eliminate any residual organisms. Maintaining ear hygiene and regular inspections reduces the risk of recurrence.