What does ear mite look like in a dog, what are the symptoms and treatment methods? - briefly
Ear mites appear as tiny, white‑to‑gray specks resembling sand that gather at the base of the ear canal and cause intense itching, dark brown discharge, and frequent head shaking. Effective treatment includes cleaning the ears with a veterinary‑approved solution and applying a prescribed antiparasitic medication such as ivermectin or selamectin.
What does ear mite look like in a dog, what are the symptoms and treatment methods? - in detail
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are microscopic, elongated arachnids about 0.2–0.3 mm long. Under magnification they appear as oval, translucent bodies with eight legs near the front. In a dog’s ear canal they form dense clusters that create a dark, crumbly debris often described as “coffee‑ground” material. The mites themselves are not visible to the naked eye, but the characteristic debris and the occasional movement of tiny specks can be observed with an otoscope.
Typical clinical signs include:
- Persistent scratching of the ear or head shaking;
- Redness and swelling of the external ear canal;
- Foul, yeasty odor emanating from the ear;
- Accumulation of dark, waxy discharge that may become crusty;
- Secondary bacterial or yeast infection, evidenced by pus‑like or watery discharge;
- In severe cases, ulceration of the ear canal skin and hearing impairment.
Diagnosis is confirmed by microscopic examination of a sample of the ear debris. A veterinarian may also perform an otoscopic inspection to visualize live mites moving within the canal.
Therapeutic measures consist of three coordinated steps:
- Mechanical cleaning – Flush the ear with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove debris and reduce mite load. Follow with gentle drying to prevent moisture‑related infections.
- Topical acaricidal treatment – Apply ear drops containing agents such as pyrethrins, moxidectin, selamectin, or a milbemycin formulation. Follow the product’s schedule, usually a first dose, a second dose after 7–10 days, and a third dose after another 7–10 days to break the mite life cycle.
- Systemic therapy (if needed) – Administer oral ivermectin, milbemycin oxime, or selamectin at the dose recommended by the veterinarian to eradicate mites that may reside in other body sites.
Environmental control is essential: wash bedding, toys, and grooming tools in hot water; vacuum carpets and upholstery; treat all pets in the household simultaneously, as ear mites spread easily between animals.
Re‑examination after the final treatment dose confirms eradication. Persistent or recurrent signs warrant repeat otoscopic evaluation and possibly a culture to address secondary infections.