How to treat ear mites and what are the symptoms? - briefly
Typical signs are dark, crumbly debris in the ear canal, intense itching, redness, and a strong odor. Effective control requires cleaning the ear with a veterinarian‑approved mite remover and applying a prescribed antiparasitic medication such as ivermectin or selamectin.
How to treat ear mites and what are the symptoms? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) infest the external ear canal, causing inflammation, discharge, and discomfort. Early identification relies on recognizing characteristic signs.
Typical manifestations include:
- Dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds
- Intense scratching or head shaking
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal
- Foul odor from the ear
- Secondary bacterial or yeast infection, evident by thick, yellowish discharge
Diagnosis is confirmed by examining the ear with an otoscope or by microscopic inspection of the debris, where live mites or their eggs are visible.
Effective management consists of two phases: immediate eradication and prevention of reinfestation.
Immediate eradication:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide (e.g., selamectin, moxidectin, or a pyrethrin‑based solution) directly into the ear canal according to the product’s dosage schedule.
- Clean the ear before medication by gently flushing with a sterile saline solution or a veterinary‑approved ear cleanser, removing crusted debris to improve drug contact.
- Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched mites, as the life cycle spans approximately 2 weeks.
Prevention and supportive care:
- Treat all animals in the household, even if asymptomatic, because mites spread rapidly.
- Disinfect the environment: wash bedding, toys, and carrier crates in hot water; vacuum carpets and upholstery; use an appropriate environmental acaricide if recommended by a veterinarian.
- Monitor for recurrence weekly for at least one month, re‑examining the ear canal and cleaning as needed.
- Maintain routine ear hygiene: weekly inspection, gentle cleaning with a pH‑balanced ear wash, and avoidance of cotton swabs that can damage the delicate skin.
If secondary infection develops, administer a suitable antibacterial or antifungal ear drop prescribed by a veterinarian, and consider systemic antibiotics if the infection penetrates deeper tissues.
Regular veterinary follow‑up ensures complete resolution, confirms that no mites remain, and addresses any lingering inflammation or damage to the ear canal.