How to treat ear mites in a rabbit’s ears? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) applied directly to the ear canal according to the product instructions, and clean the ear gently with a pH‑balanced solution. Repeat the medication after 7–10 days and inspect the ear for remaining debris.
How to treat ear mites in a rabbit’s ears? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in rabbits cause itching, crusty discharge, and hearing impairment. Prompt identification and intervention prevent secondary infections and discomfort.
Diagnosis
- Observe dark, coffee‑ground debris in the ear canal.
- Look for reddened skin, hair loss, or excessive scratching.
- Confirm with a microscopic examination of a sample taken from the ear.
Medication options
- Topical acaricides – products containing selamectin, ivermectin, or milbemycin oxime applied directly to the ear canal. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage schedule; repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched mites.
- Systemic antiparasitics – oral ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg) or milbemycin oxime (0.5 mg/kg) administered once, then repeated after 10 days. Verify rabbit‑specific dosing to avoid toxicity.
- Prescription ear drops – formulations with pyrethrins or chlorhexidine combined with an antiparasitic agent, applied twice daily for 5 days.
Cleaning procedure
- Warm a small amount of sterile saline or a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser.
- Gently irrigate the canal with a syringe, avoiding deep insertion.
- Use a soft cotton swab to remove loosened debris; do not push material further into the ear.
- Dry the ear with a clean gauze pad before applying medication.
Supportive care
- Provide a high‑fiber diet to maintain normal gut motility, which aids systemic drug absorption.
- Monitor for signs of otitis externa: swelling, foul odor, or persistent pain. Seek veterinary assessment if symptoms persist after two treatment cycles.
Prevention
- Quarantine new rabbits for at least 30 days and inspect ears regularly.
- Maintain a clean environment; replace bedding weekly and disinfect cages.
- Conduct routine ear checks during monthly health examinations.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine ears 2 weeks after the final dose.
- Perform a second microscopic analysis to confirm the absence of live mites.
- Record treatment dates, products used, and dosages for future reference.
Adhering to these steps eliminates ear mite populations, restores ear health, and reduces the risk of recurrence.