What is dropped in cats' ears for ticks? - briefly
A liquid acaricide, typically a fipronil‑based spot‑on solution, is placed directly into the cat’s ear canal to eradicate ticks. The medication disperses across the skin, delivering systemic protection for several weeks.
What is dropped in cats' ears for ticks? - in detail
Ticks that attach to a cat’s ear canal require a topical acaricidal solution. The product is a liquid preparation formulated for otic administration and contains an active ingredient that kills ectoparasites on contact and penetrates the tick’s nervous system.
Common active agents include:
- Ivermectin % (broad‑spectrum macrocyclic lactone)
- Selamectin % (macrocyclic lactone with rapid systemic absorption)
- Fipronil % (phenylpyrazole disrupting GABA‑gated chloride channels)
- Amitraz % (formamidine acting on octopamine receptors)
- Milbemycin oxime % (macrocyclic lactone with prolonged activity)
Dosage is expressed in drops per ear, calibrated to the animal’s weight. Typical regimens specify one to two drops in each ear for cats weighing up to 4 kg, with a reduced volume for smaller individuals. Frequency ranges from a single application to a repeat after 7–14 days, depending on the product’s residual activity and the severity of infestation.
Safety considerations demand verification that the cat is not pregnant, lactating, or suffering from hepatic or renal impairment. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to the active compound or any formulation excipient. Reported adverse effects are transient irritation, pruritus, or rare neurotoxicity at excessive doses.
Application procedure:
- Restrain the cat gently, preferably with a helper.
- Inspect the ear canal for debris; wipe the external ear with a soft cloth.
- Hold the ear upright to straighten the canal.
- Administer the prescribed number of drops into the auditory meatus, avoiding contact with the tympanic membrane.
- Massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the solution.
- Observe the cat for 1–2 minutes to ensure no spillage or aspiration.
Post‑treatment monitoring includes daily inspection for residual ticks, inflammation, or discharge. If live ticks persist after the recommended interval, a second application may be necessary. Environmental control—regular cleaning of bedding, vacuuming, and treatment of the home’s interior with a compatible spray—reduces reinfestation risk.