What medication can be used at home to treat ear mites in cats? - briefly
Topical acaricides such as selamectin (Revolution) or a pyrethrin‑based ear drop (e.g., Revolution Plus) can be applied at home to eradicate ear mites. A veterinarian‑prescribed ivermectin ear solution is also effective for home treatment.
What medication can be used at home to treat ear mites in cats? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in cats can be resolved with several at‑home pharmaceutical options, each requiring precise dosing and proper ear hygiene.
A topical antiparasitic applied directly to the ear canal is the most common approach. Products containing selamectin (e.g., Revolution) or moxidectin (e.g., Advocate) are approved for feline use and eliminate Otodectes cynotis within a single application. The medication is administered as a drop onto the skin behind the ear; a small amount spreads to the ear canal, killing mites and preventing re‑infestation for up to a month. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage chart, which bases the volume on the cat’s weight.
Another viable choice is a single‑dose ivermectin ear drop formulation (e.g., Ivermectomax). The product is mixed with a carrier oil and placed in the ear canal using a dropper. Dosage is 0.2 mg/kg, delivered once. Ivermectin is effective but can cause neurotoxicity in breeds with the MDR1 gene mutation; confirm breed safety before use.
Milbemycin oxime, available as an oral chewable tablet (e.g., Interceptor), treats ear mites systemically. The recommended dose is 0.5 mg/kg, given once. The drug reaches the ear canal through the bloodstream, killing mites within 48 hours. Oral administration simplifies treatment for cats that resist ear drops.
Lime sulfur dips provide a non‑prescription alternative. A 1‑2 % lime sulfur solution is applied to the ear canal with a cotton ball, left for 5–10 minutes, then rinsed. Repeat every three days for two weeks. The dip has a strong odor and may irritate sensitive skin; use only if the cat tolerates the preparation.
Effective treatment includes these steps:
- Clean the ear with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove debris and wax.
- Dry the canal gently with gauze.
- Apply the selected medication according to weight‑based instructions.
- Observe the cat for adverse reactions (vomiting, tremors, excessive salivation) for 30 minutes post‑application.
- Repeat the dose if the product specifies a second administration (e.g., some selamectin protocols require a follow‑up at 2 weeks).
Monitoring continues for two weeks; a lack of itching, reduced debris, and normal ear appearance indicate success. Persistent symptoms warrant veterinary reassessment, as secondary bacterial or yeast infections may require additional therapy.