Ear Mites In Dogs

September 19, 2023

What Are Ear Mites In Dogs?

Ear mites are easily transmittable parasites that inhabit the areas surrounding the ear passages. These mites specific to canine ears fall under the Psoroptidae family, a category of external parasitic mites that remain on the skin's surface rather than digging deep into it, unlike some other mite varieties.

Known scientifically as Otodectes cynotis, these microscopic creatures are typically smaller than half a millimeter and are most effectively viewed through a microscope. They are known to infest various animals, from dogs and cats to rabbits, ferrets, and, on rare occasions, even livestock.

Symptoms Of Ear Mites In Dogs

Ear mites induce severe itching. Indicators of a canine ear mite infestation often encompass:

Persistent scratching and touching of the ears
Frequent head shaking
Blackish ear excretions
Bald patches, skin wounds, and subsequent skin issues around the ears, face, and neck due to relentless scratching

Ear issues from bacteria and yeast may resemble those of ear mites. If you observe any anomalies in your dog's ears, it's crucial to consult your vet for a check-up.

Causes Of Ear Mites In Dogs

Dogs acquire ear mites when they come into contact with other creatures carrying these pests.

One needs to be familiar with the mite's developmental stages to grasp how canines contract ear mites. Adult mites produce eggs, which evolve into larvae, undergo two nymph phases, and mature into adults. This entire transformation from egg to a full-fledged mite spans roughly three weeks. An adult mite has a lifespan of about two months.

These mites thrive by consuming debris from your dog's ear and skin, leading to redness and discomfort. The transmission of mites between animals occurs primarily through direct contact.

Given the highly infectious nature of ear mites, it's essential to simultaneously address all animals at risk in your household, even if only one shows symptoms.

How Vets Diagnose Ear Mites

A canine showing signs of an ear infection, such as itching or ear discharge, could also exhibit ear mites symptoms. This is why consulting a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and subsequent treatment is crucial.

Accurate diagnosis ensures the proper medicinal intervention. Administering incorrect medication can be hazardous and cause additional distress to your furry friend, making it an inefficient and costly approach. If there's a rupture in your dog's eardrum, only specific medications are suitable, underscoring the significance of a vet visit.

To pinpoint the problem, the veterinarian will typically inspect your dog's ears using an otoscope and collect an ear sample to examine for mite eggs and adults under a microscope. Furthermore, an ear cytology might be conducted to exclude potential bacterial or yeast infections. On occasions, a mite might also be detected through skin scraping.

Ear Mite Treatment For Dogs

Treating ear mites in dogs entails ear cleaning and administering the appropriate medication.

Clearing out your dog's ear canal helps eliminate accumulated debris, optimizes the efficacy of medications, and fosters the restoration of the ear canal's natural, healthy state. Your veterinarian will demonstrate the cleaning procedure and guide you on performing it at home if necessary.

Medications prescribed for ear mites may encompass:

A topical solution for the inner ear
A topical treatment meant to be absorbed by your dog's skin
Oral tablets
Injectable solutions

Some of these ear-specific topical treatments can be a one-time application, while others may necessitate daily use spanning from 7 to 30 days. The type and duration of the medication will be determined by your vet, taking into account your dog's unique needs.

All pets within a household must undergo treatment preventing recurring mite transfers between them. Discuss with your veterinarian to identify suitable treatments for each animal.

Management And Recovery Of Dog Ear Mites

Most dogs recover smoothly and swiftly from ear mite infestations, but the battle with these pesky parasites might persist for some. Vets often suggest a subsequent check-up to ensure the dog's ears fully heal. If issues remain, additional interventions may be prescribed.

Occasionally, leftover debris in the dog's ear canal may require cleaning. Your veterinarian might prescribe supplementary or alternate treatments if there's a concurrent bacterial or yeast ailment.

Many products designed to combat fleas, ticks, and other parasites can be utilized to fend off potential ear mite invasions in the future. Some of these are:

Post-treatment, inspecting your dog's ears consistently for any indications of ear mites or other concerns is essential. Watch out for signs such as discharge, inflammation in the ear canal, or behaviors like frequent head shaking or scratching.

Ear Mites In Dogs FAQs

Is it possible for humans to contract ear mites from dogs?

While rare, humans can indeed catch ear mites from an afflicted dog. That said, other household pets are likelier to be infected by a dog with ear mites.

What are some natural remedies for dog ear mites?

The safety and efficacy of home solutions for ear mites in dogs have yet to be extensively studied. Given the array of safe and effective treatments available, it's recommended to consult a veterinarian for appropriate medication.

Is tea tree oil safe for treating ear mites in dogs?

Tea tree oil should not be applied to dogs or introduced into their ears. Pure tea tree oil can be harmful to dogs. Even though diluted versions might have antibacterial and antifungal benefits, they can cause irritation, discomfort, and potential harm, especially in sensitive areas.

With reliable treatments available for ear mites in dogs, it's better to opt for veterinarian-recommended options.

Can hydrogen peroxide be used to eliminate ear mites in dogs?

Using hydrogen peroxide on inflamed ears can be excruciating and might impede healing while harming delicate tissues. It's advised against using hydrogen peroxide for treating ear mites in dogs.

Which drugs are effective against ear mites in dogs?

A range of products have been recognized for their effectiveness in treating ear mites in dogs, such as: