What are ear mites?

What are Ear mites? Ear mites in dogs and cats are tiny, spider like creatures that invade the ear canal and feed on skin debris. The ears can have a dark, wax like substance which is a clear sign of ear mites. They often prefer cats as their hosts, but dogs are not immune to infestation. The occurrence of ear mites in dogs is most common in puppies, younger dogs, and dogs with allergies or a weakened immune system.

Treating ear mites requires persistence. Ear mites are contagious, so you must treat all animals in the family. Also, warn friends whose dogs might be exposed at play time.  The ear mites treatment must be continued until no final signs of ear mites are present.  It’s helpful to keep dog ears and cat ears clean with an alcohol-free ear wash on a weekly basis.  Alcohol dries out the ear and it can sting, causing more pain in the sensitive ear.  Ear mites are painful enough, so consider your options before using pesticides or alcohol based ear wash or ear mites treatment.

How to apply Ear Mites Treatment

The most common method for using an ear wash solution and ear mite treatment is best performed with calm, confident movements.   Holding your dogs or cats head to one side, keep the ear open so you can see into the ear.  Using your other hand, dispense the drops into the ear canal. Gently massage the base of the ear. Then repeat the process to treat the other ear. Massaging promotes the movement of the solution throughout the ear canal and helps to ensure complete coverage to all present ear mites.  The treated dog or cat will almost always shake their head, so consider having a cloth or paper towel nearby to wipe off the excess.

Ear Mites Prevention

Cotton tipped applicators (like Q-tips) in the animal’s ear may only push debris further into the ear canal or cause injury with any sharp movements, so don’t use them on dogs and cats.  Use cotton swabs or pads with ear wash to clean the ear on a weekly basis to keep your pet free from future ear mites. Dog and cat ear health is best practiced with prevention. Inspecting and cleaning the ears once a week is a surefire way to prevent ear mites and other problems from arising.

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This entry is filed under Dogs & Cats, Mites.