What should be used to clean cats' ears of ear mites? - briefly
Use a veterinary‑approved ear cleanser that contains a mild surfactant and an anti‑mite ingredient such as pyrethrin, then apply a prescribed treatment like selamectin, ivermectin, or a lime‑sulfur dip to eliminate the parasites. Flush the ear canal with the solution, dry it gently, and follow the veterinarian’s dosing schedule to prevent reinfestation.
What should be used to clean cats' ears of ear mites? - in detail
Cleaning a cat’s ear when ear mites are present requires a two‑step approach: removal of debris and administration of a mite‑killing medication.
First, soften the waxy buildup that shelters the parasites. Apply a few drops of a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser or a diluted saline solution (one part sterile saline to one part distilled water). Gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds to distribute the fluid, then use a soft gauze pad or a cotton ball to wipe away the softened material. Avoid inserting cotton swabs into the canal, as this can damage the delicate skin.
Second, treat the infestation with an acaricidal agent. Commonly prescribed options include:
- Topical ivermectin or selamectin drops, applied according to the label dosage.
- Pyrethrin‑based ear solutions (e.g., milbemycin‑containing formulations) that kill mites on contact.
- Lime sulfur dip, diluted to the manufacturer’s recommended concentration, for severe cases.
Follow the product’s schedule, typically one application daily for 7–10 days, then a repeat dose after two weeks to eliminate any newly hatched mites. After each treatment, repeat the cleaning step to prevent re‑colonization.
Finally, monitor the cat for signs of inflammation, secondary infection, or adverse reactions. If excessive redness, discharge, or discomfort persists, seek veterinary evaluation promptly. Regular ear checks and preventive monthly ectoparasite preventatives reduce the risk of recurrence.