Ear mites are parasites that live in the ear canal of dogs and cats and other animals. They're highly contagious and can be particularly prolific in communities where generations of animals have suffered with ear mites with no veterinary intervention to stem the flow.
Mites Thrive on Ear Canal Debris and Fluids
While living in the warm environment of the ear canal, mites feast on tissue debris and fluids. If left untreated, their existence can cause bacterial infections leading to ear drum rupture and deafness.
Mites cause itchiness which is why affected animals scratch at their ears and shake their heads rather violently. All that scratching can cause skin lesions which can create perfect avenues for secondary infections.
Immunity May Prevent Obvious Symptoms in Adult Cats
Animals may build immunity to ear mites as they grow older which is why a litter of kittens or puppies scratches their ears and shake their heads furiously while their mother, similarly infested, appears symptom-free. This doesn't mean she doesn't share their mite plight. Rather, her body has become immune to the resulting effects.
Symptoms include a dark, waxy buildup inside the ears accompanied by a rather bad odour. While these are the most common signs, only a veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis through microscopic analysis.
Prescription: A Visit to the Veterinarian
If mites have been found, the veterinarian will flush the ears to jump-start the cleaning process then medication is administered which will likely be in the form of ear drops to be continued at home by the owner. These drops will eradicate the parasites, reduce inflammation, and help prevent recurring infestations. It's important to use the medication exactly as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Re-Check Necessary to Ensure Mites are Eliminated
Ear mites have a three-week life cycle which means the treatment must continue to kill them at all their life stages. A veterinarian will recommend a re-check visit to ensure the the ears are free of mites following the full course of treatment.
It's important to remember that only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment. Poking around in an animal's ears with a cotton-tipped swab can cause pain and further damage.
Since ear mites are very contagious, other animals in the home may need to be treated as well. Annual veterinary examinations almost always include a quick check of the ears. Early detection of ear mites saves time and money for the owner and ensures a healthy, happy pet.
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