What does an ear look like when it has an ear mite? - briefly
The ear appears reddened, swollen, and covered with dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee‑ground material. Frequent scratching and a strong, unpleasant odor commonly accompany the infestation.
What does an ear look like when it has an ear mite? - in detail
The ear affected by ear mites displays several distinct visual cues. The external canal often appears reddened and inflamed, with the surrounding skin swollen. A thick, dark crust forms at the entrance of the canal; this material resembles coffee grounds and consists of dried blood, wax, and mite debris. The crust may be gritty to the touch and can be scraped away, revealing a moist, irritated surface underneath.
Inside the canal, the lining is irritated and may bleed slightly when examined. Small, moving specks—live mites—can sometimes be seen crawling among the debris. The ear may emit a foul, musty odor caused by bacterial overgrowth secondary to the infestation.
Behavioral signs accompany the visual symptoms. The animal frequently scratches the ear or shakes its head, indicating discomfort. Excessive scratching can produce additional abrasions and crusting, worsening the appearance.
Key characteristics to identify:
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal and surrounding tissue
- Dark, coffee‑ground‑like crust at the canal opening
- Moist, inflamed skin beneath the crust
- Visible moving mites or tiny dark specks in the debris
- Unpleasant, stale odor from the ear
- Signs of self‑trauma such as scratches or scabs
These features together constitute the typical presentation of an ear infested with ear mites. Prompt veterinary examination and treatment are essential to resolve the condition and prevent permanent damage.