How to treat for ear mites? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑prescribed miticide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin) directly into the cleaned ear canal and follow the product’s dosing schedule. Re‑examine the animal after treatment to confirm that the infestation has been eliminated.
How to treat for ear mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestations require prompt identification and systematic management.
First, confirm the presence of parasites by inspecting the ear canal. Look for dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris, inflammation, and the mites themselves. A veterinary otoscopic examination provides the most reliable diagnosis.
Second, clean the affected ears. Use a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to dissolve debris. Apply the solution, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, then allow the animal to shake. Wipe the outer ear with gauze; avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the canal.
Third, administer an acaricidal medication. Options include:
- Topical drops containing pyrethrins, selamectin, or moxidectin; apply according to label instructions, usually once daily for 3‑5 days.
- Spot‑on treatments (e.g., a single dose of a macrocyclic lactone) that spread systemically and reach the ear canal.
- Oral ivermectin or milbemycin tablets, dosed based on body weight and prescribed by a veterinarian.
Select the product that matches the animal’s species, age, and health status. Follow the dosage schedule precisely; under‑dosing can allow surviving mites to reproduce.
Fourth, treat all animals in the household, even if asymptomatic. Cross‑contamination is common, and untreated companions can re‑infest treated pets.
Fifth, repeat cleaning and medication as directed. Many protocols require a second cleaning session 7‑10 days after the initial treatment to remove newly shed mites and residual debris.
Finally, monitor for recurrence. Persistent inflammation or debris after the full course indicates possible resistance or secondary infection, necessitating a veterinary reassessment and possibly a different acaricide.
Adhering to this step‑by‑step regimen eliminates ear mites, restores ear health, and prevents future outbreaks.