What should be used to drip in a cat's ears for mite treatment? - briefly
A veterinarian‑prescribed ear mite medication—typically an otic solution with ivermectin, selamectin, or milbemycin—should be administered into the cat’s ear canal according to the product’s dosing instructions. Ensure the ear is clean, apply the correct drop volume, and repeat the treatment as recommended to eliminate the infestation.
What should be used to drip in a cat's ears for mite treatment? - in detail
For ear mite infestations in felines, the preferred topical agents are veterinary‑approved ear drops containing either milbemycin oxime, ivermectin, selamectin, or a combination of antiparasitic and anti‑inflammatory ingredients. Products such as Revolution® (selamectin), Milbemycin® (milbemycin oxime), and stronghold® (selamectin) are formulated for otic administration and have demonstrated efficacy against Otodectes cynotis.
Key characteristics of an appropriate ear‑drop solution include:
- Antiparasitic activity specifically targeting ear mites.
- Minimal ototoxic potential; formulations are designed for safe use in the external auditory canal.
- Presence of soothing agents (e.g., aloe, lidocaine) to reduce irritation.
- Clear dosage instructions based on the cat’s weight.
Administration protocol:
- Restrain the cat gently; use a towel if necessary to prevent injury.
- Warm the bottle by rolling it in the hand for a few seconds to reduce viscosity.
- Pull the pinna back to expose the ear canal.
- Apply the recommended volume (usually 0.5 ml to 1 ml) directly into the canal, avoiding contact with the skin.
- Massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to distribute the medication.
- Repeat on the affected ear; treat the opposite ear prophylactically if indicated.
- Clean excess fluid with a soft cloth; do not insert cotton swabs.
Follow‑up care:
- Re‑treat according to the product’s schedule, typically every 2–4 weeks for three applications.
- Monitor for residual debris; gentle cleaning with a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser may be performed after the first dose.
- Seek veterinary evaluation if signs of pain, swelling, or secondary infection develop.
Avoid using over‑the‑counter human ear drops, essential oils, or homemade mixtures, as they lack proven efficacy and may cause toxic reactions. Always consult a veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and obtain a prescription appropriate for the cat’s health status.