What should be administered to a cat for ear mites? - briefly
Treat ear mite infestation with a veterinary‑prescribed antiparasitic, such as a topical selamectin, moxidectin, or an ivermectin‑based ear solution. A veterinarian must select the specific product and dosage for the cat.
What should be administered to a cat for ear mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in felines require prompt therapeutic action to eliminate the parasites and prevent secondary infections. The primary pharmacologic agents approved for cats include topical acaricides, oral medications, and, in some cases, injectable products.
Topical treatments are applied directly into the ear canal. Commonly used formulations contain:
- Selamectin (e.g., Revolution) – 6 mg/kg applied once, repeats after 30 days if needed.
- Moxidectin + imidacloprid (e.g., Advocate) – 1 mg/kg, single application; repeat after 30 days.
- Amitraz‑based ear drops – 0.025% solution, 2–3 drops per ear daily for three days; not recommended for kittens under 8 weeks or pregnant queens.
Oral systemic options provide broader parasite control and are useful when ear mites coexist with other ectoparasites:
- Ivermectin – 0.2 mg/kg, single dose; repeat after 2 weeks if infestation persists.
- Milbemycin oxime – 0.5 mg/kg, administered once; repeat after 30 days for complete eradication.
Injectable preparations are less common but may be chosen for severe cases:
- Ivermectin injectable – 0.2 mg/kg, subcutaneous, single dose; monitor for neurotoxic signs.
Administration guidelines:
- Clean the ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove debris and wax.
- Dry the ear gently with gauze; avoid cotton swabs that can damage the tympanic membrane.
- Apply the prescribed amount of medication directly into the canal, following the product’s dosing chart based on the cat’s weight.
- Massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the drug.
- Repeat the treatment schedule as indicated by the specific product label.
Precautions:
- Verify the cat’s weight and health status before dosing; adjust for kittens, pregnant, or lactating animals.
- Observe for adverse reactions such as excessive salivation, vomiting, or neurologic signs; discontinue and seek veterinary care if they occur.
- Maintain environmental hygiene: wash bedding, clean litter boxes, and treat all animals in the household to prevent reinfestation.
Laboratory confirmation of ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) via otoscopic examination or ear swab microscopy enhances treatment accuracy. Persistent signs after the recommended course warrant re‑evaluation by a veterinarian, as secondary bacterial or fungal infections may require additional antimicrobial therapy.