How to treat ear ticks? - briefly
Remove the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling upward with steady pressure; then clean the site with antiseptic and observe for any signs of infection. If the tick is deeply embedded, causes pain, or the area becomes inflamed, obtain professional medical care promptly.
How to treat ear ticks? - in detail
Ear ticks, also known as otic mites, infest the external auditory canal and cause irritation, inflammation, and possible secondary infection. Effective management requires a combination of mechanical removal, pharmacological intervention, and environmental control.
First, isolate the affected animal or person to prevent spread. Use a otoscope or a well‑lit magnifying device to visualize the canal. Gently flush the ear with a warm, isotonic solution (e.g., saline) to loosen mites and debris. Collect the expelled material for microscopic confirmation if needed.
Apply a topical acaricide specifically approved for otic use. Common agents include:
- Selamectin 1% solution – apply 1 ml per ear, repeat after 7 days.
- Ivermectin 1% cream – apply a thin layer, maintain contact for at least 10 minutes, repeat daily for 3 days.
- Malathion 0.5% liquid – soak the ear for 5 minutes, then drain and dry; repeat every 48 hours for 2 weeks.
After each application, dry the canal with sterile gauze to prevent moisture‑related bacterial growth. Monitor for adverse reactions such as erythema, swelling, or pruritus; discontinue the product and seek veterinary or medical advice if they occur.
Adjunctive measures enhance success:
- Clean the surrounding environment (bedding, cages, clothing) with a 0.5% benzalkonium chloride solution.
- Wash hands and disinfect tools after each ear examination.
- Treat all cohabiting individuals simultaneously, even if asymptomatic, to eliminate reservoirs.
Follow‑up examinations at 7‑day intervals confirm eradication. Absence of live mites on two consecutive assessments indicates resolution. If symptoms persist, consider a secondary bacterial infection and initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy based on culture results.