How to treat rabbit ears for ear mites? - briefly
Administer a veterinary‑approved acaricide (e.g., selamectin, ivermectin, or topical moxidectin) at the recommended dose and clean the ear canal with warm saline before application. Repeat the treatment according to the product schedule and monitor for residual debris or inflammation.
How to treat rabbit ears for ear mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestation in rabbits requires prompt, systematic intervention to alleviate discomfort and prevent secondary infections. The parasite « Psoroptes cuniculi » colonizes the external auditory canal, feeding on skin debris and causing inflammation, crust formation, and potential hearing loss. Effective management combines pharmacological treatment, hygiene measures, and environmental control.
A typical therapeutic protocol includes the following steps:
- Veterinary diagnosis – Perform otoscopic examination and collect ear swabs for microscopic confirmation of mite presence.
- Medication selection – Apply a topical acaricide approved for lagomorphs, such as a 1 % ivermectin solution or a 0.5 % selamectin preparation. Follow label dosage: 0.2 ml per ear, administered once daily for three consecutive days.
- Administration technique – Gently restrain the rabbit, lift the ear flap, and instill the prescribed volume into the canal. Allow the solution to spread by massaging the base of the ear for 30 seconds.
- Adjunctive care – Clean the ear with a warm saline solution before each treatment to remove debris and improve drug contact. Avoid cotton swabs that may damage the canal.
- Monitoring – Re‑examine the ears after the treatment course. Persistent crusts or itching may indicate incomplete eradication; a second round of medication can be instituted after a 7‑day interval.
- Environmental sanitation – Wash bedding, cages, and toys with hot water (≥ 60 °C) and disinfect with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite). Replace any porous materials that cannot be thoroughly cleaned.
- Preventive measures – Conduct regular ear inspections during routine health checks. Maintain low humidity and adequate ventilation to discourage mite proliferation.
Potential complications include otitis externa secondary to bacterial overgrowth. If signs of bacterial infection appear—such as purulent discharge, foul odor, or swelling—introduce a broad‑spectrum antibiotic ointment after consulting a veterinarian.
Long‑term success depends on strict adherence to the treatment schedule, thorough cleaning of the auditory canal, and consistent environmental hygiene. Early detection and swift intervention minimize suffering and reduce the risk of recurrence.