What should be dropped into a cat's ear to treat an ear tick? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved acaricidal ear solution—e.g., a selamectin‑based or pyrethrin formulation—directly into the cat’s ear canal. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the product label or your veterinarian.
What should be dropped into a cat's ear to treat an ear tick? - in detail
Effective treatment of an ear mite infestation in a feline requires a topical solution specifically formulated for otic use. Veterinarians commonly prescribe one of the following products:
- Ivermectin‑based ear drops (e.g., ivermectin 1 % solution). Apply the recommended volume, usually 0.5 ml per ear, directly into the canal after cleaning. Ivermectin interferes with the parasite’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and death.
- Selamectin or milbemycin formulations (e.g., selamectin 1 % solution). These macrocyclic lactones have proven efficacy against Otodectes cynotis. Follow the label dosage, typically 0.2 ml per ear, ensuring the tip reaches the deepest part of the canal.
- Pyrethrin‑containing products (e.g., pyrethrin‑pyriproxyfen ear solution). Apply 0.5 ml per ear; the compounds act as neurotoxins to the mites while sparing the host when used correctly.
- Organic oil preparations (e.g., mineral oil or olive oil). A few drops can suffocate the parasites, but they lack proven eradication rates and should be considered adjunctive only.
Procedure for administration:
- Restrain the cat gently, preferably with a towel to prevent injury.
- Inspect the ear for excessive cerumen or debris; if present, wipe the outer canal with a cotton ball moistened with warm saline.
- Hold the ear flap upright to straighten the canal.
- Insert the exact amount of medication as instructed, allowing the solution to coat the entire canal.
- Massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the product.
- Repeat the process for the opposite ear, if both are affected.
- Clean any excess fluid from the external ear to avoid secondary infection.
Safety considerations:
- Verify the cat’s weight and health status; dosage is weight‑dependent.
- Do not use products labeled for dogs or for systemic administration unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Monitor for adverse reactions such as erythema, swelling, or excessive scratching; discontinue use and seek veterinary advice if they occur.
- Complete the full treatment course, typically 2–3 applications spaced 7–10 days apart, to eradicate residual stages of the mite life cycle.
Follow‑up:
- Re‑examine the ears 2 weeks after the final dose. Absence of debris, reduced inflammation, and lack of audible scratching indicate successful resolution.
- In multi‑cat households, treat all animals simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
- Maintain routine ear cleaning with a veterinarian‑approved solution to reduce recurrence risk.