Definition:
Ear mites, as its name suggest, are mites that infest the ears of animals. These mites spread rapidly and are known to infect other animals with just a brief physical contact with the affected animal. Ear mites usually affect ferrets and cats, but can also be seen in dogs. Infected animals build up a significant amount of crumbly dark brown material inside their ears.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is made through close inspection of the animal’s ears. Those affected with ear mites have tiny white mites seen in the debris. Unlike other mites, ear mites do not burrow, so they can easily be seen within the ear canal.
Treatment:
Treatment options for ear mites include applying topical ointments after removing the debris from the ear. Anti-parasitic medications and oral or injectable ivermectin can be used in the ears. In cats, a product called “selamectin” made specifically for ear mites can treat this condition in one month.
Symptoms and Signs:
Animals with ear mites develop inflammatory symptoms including redness and itching of the ear. Affected animals could also develop other skin diseases in their tails or neck when left untreated. Rare cases of animals with ear mites become deaf.
Causes:
Ear mites are caused by different kinds of mites.
