How to treat a cat's ears for mites? - briefly
Clean the ear canal with a vet‑approved acaricide (e.g., lime sulfur or a commercial ear‑mite medication) after gently removing debris with a cotton ball. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule and repeat treatment in 7–10 days to ensure complete eradication.
How to treat a cat's ears for mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in cats presents with excessive scratching, head shaking, and dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds in the ear canal. These signs indicate the presence of Otodectes cynotis, the most common ear parasite in felines.
Accurate diagnosis requires visual inspection of the ear canal using an otoscope or a bright light and a cotton swab. The characteristic debris contains live mites, eggs, and fecal matter. If the debris is unclear, a veterinarian may take a sample for microscopic examination.
Effective treatment follows a three‑step protocol:
- Medication application – Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, moxidectin, or a pyrethrin‑based ear solution) directly into the ear canal according to the product label. Repeat the dose as instructed, typically after 7–10 days, to eliminate newly hatched mites.
- Ear cleaning – Gently flush the ear with a veterinary‑grade cleanser to remove debris and residual medication. Use a soft gauze pad, not a cotton swab, to avoid damaging the delicate skin.
- Systemic therapy – In severe cases, oral ivermectin or milbemycin oxime may be prescribed to reach mites residing deeper in the ear canal or on the skin.
Preventive measures include regular ear inspections, routine cleaning with a mild, pH‑balanced solution, and maintaining up‑to‑date parasite control products. Treat all animals in the household simultaneously, as ear mites spread quickly among cats and dogs.
If symptoms persist after the full treatment course, revisit the veterinarian for a reassessment, possible secondary infection, or alternative medication.