Which medications are used to treat ear mite? - briefly
Effective treatments include topical ivermectin or selamectin, oral milbemycin oxime, moxidectin ear drops, and pyrethrin‑based ear solutions. All require veterinary prescription and dosing based on the animal’s weight.
Which medications are used to treat ear mite? - in detail
Ear mite infestations are typically resolved with acaricidal agents applied directly to the ear canal or administered systemically. The most common topical products contain selamectin, a macrocyclic lactone that kills mites on contact. Selamectin is marketed under names such as Revolution and Stronghold and is applied once monthly to the skin at the base of the skull; a few drops are then placed into the ear. Ivermectin, another macrocyclic lactone, is available in liquid formulations (e.g., Ivomec) that can be pipetted into the ear canal every 1‑2 weeks for several applications. Moxidectin, found in Advantage Multi and ProHeart, is similarly used as a spot‑on treatment with a few drops delivered to the ear.
Systemic options include oral ivermectin tablets or chewables (e.g., Heartgard), oral milbemycin oxime (e.g., Interceptor), and fluralaner chewables (e.g., Bravecto). These medications circulate throughout the body, reaching mites residing in the ear canal and providing broader protection against other parasites. Dosage is species‑specific: dogs typically receive 0.2 mg/kg of ivermectin orally, while cats receive 0.1 mg/kg; milbemycin is usually given at 0.5 mg/kg for dogs and 0.25 mg/kg for cats.
In addition to acaricides, ear cleaning solutions containing chlorhexidine, potassium permanganate, or saline are used to remove debris and reduce inflammation before medication is applied. Some products combine an anti‑inflammatory steroid (e.g., dexamethasone) with an acaricide to alleviate swelling and itching.
Potential adverse effects are generally mild and include transient erythema, pruritus, or gastrointestinal upset with oral agents. Severe reactions—such as tremors, ataxia, or hypersensitivity—are rare but require immediate veterinary attention.
Effective treatment protocols typically follow this sequence:
- Clean the ear canal to eliminate wax and debris.
- Apply a topical acaricide according to label instructions (frequency varies from daily for the first three days to weekly or monthly thereafter).
- If systemic therapy is chosen, administer the oral dose on schedule and monitor for side effects.
- Re‑examine the animal after two weeks to confirm mite eradication; a second round of treatment may be necessary for persistent cases.
Choosing between topical and systemic options depends on the animal’s health status, age, and the presence of concurrent infections. Veterinary guidance ensures correct dosing, minimizes risk, and maximizes the likelihood of complete mite elimination.