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Alongside bacteria and fungi, certain mites can cause ear infections in dogs. To protect and properly treat your dog, find out everything you need to know about ear mites in dogs here.
As their name suggests, ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) infest the ears of dogs. While severe complications like a ruptured eardrum can occasionally occur, ear mites generally cause mild but unpleasant symptoms in dogs, known as otoacariasis.
Early treatment by a vet is essential.
Which Dogs are More Frequently Affected?
Any dog breed can suffer from it, but puppies and young dogs are particularly vulnerable. It often appears where many animals live together, such as in animal shelters, breeding facilities, or farms.
Are Ear Mites Contagious to Humans?
Ear mites can also infect humans, causing skin rashes and crusts on the upper arms.
Symptoms: How to Tell if Your Dog Has Ear Mites?
When ear mites settle in your dog’s ear, they gradually lead to skin irritation and inflammatory reactions. These symptoms can present as follows:
Your dog experiences severe itching around the ears
Crumbly deposits, resembling coffee grounds, form in the ear — a mix of earwax, inflammatory secretions, blood components, and mite excretions
Your dog frequently shakes its head
Rare Complications
In severe cases, it can lead to skin inflammation (dermatitis) in other areas of your dog, such as the forehead or back. Additionally, your dog could develop a blood-filled haematoma (othæmatoma) or suffer a ruptured eardrum, which can cause painful middle ear infections with balance issues.
When Should I See a Vet?
The sooner you consult your vet, the sooner you can help your dog. This is especially important if your dog shows signs of itching or has crusts in the ear.
Diagnosis: How Can Ear Mites in Dogs be Detected?
The typical brown-black deposits in your dog’s ear canal and intense itching are already indicators of ear mites. In some cases, your vet can see the mites using an otoscope.
Microscopic Examination
Your vet might take a swab from the ear to confirm an infestation. Under a microscope, they can identify the mites or their eggs. However, a significant inflammatory reaction could obscure the parasites, making detection more challenging.
Before medical treatment, it is crucial for your vet to thoroughly examine your dog’s ear canal and check if the eardrum is intact. Careful ear cleaning is the next step to remove any coffee ground-like deposits from the ear.
What Remedies Work?
Various medications (such as ointments or drops) can be used to kill ear mites. Given the high risk of infection and transmission, it is wise to treat your dog and all other susceptible pets. Consult your vet to determine which medication is suitable for each pet.
Note: To kill all stages of the mites, it is crucial to follow your vet’s instructions. Additionally, a follow-up examination is helpful to ensure the treatment’s success.
Are There Home Remedies?
Your dog’s ears are very sensitive, so you shouldn’t treat ear mites on your own. Avoid using home remedies such as coconut oil, olive oil, or apple cider vinegar, as improper use could worsen the inflammation.
Causes: How Do Dogs Get Ear Mites?
Ear mites inhabit the ear canals of various animal species and are widespread globally. They are not host-specific and can be transmitted from dogs to other animals like cats. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infested animals. It often passes from infected mothers to their puppies or from puppy to puppy. Transmission via earwax or crusts your dog shakes out is less common.
What Do Ear Mites Look Like?
Ear mites are relatively small mites. Female mites grow between 350 and 500 micrometres in size, while males reach 300 to 400 micrometres. Their bodies are elongated-oval and bear six long legs. The white eggs are oval and about 200 micrometres in size.
Prognosis: What are the Chances of Recovery?
Though the infection can be annoying and long-winded, it is fortunately treatable. However, early veterinary intervention is necessary.
Prevention: How Can I Protect My Dog from Ear Mites?
You can prevent ear mite infestation in dogs with suitable parasite control using mite-killing medication (acaricides). Spot-on treatments, collars, and tablet medications can be effective.
Recognise Symptoms Early
In addition, occasionally check your dog for parasites. Look inside your dog’s ear or inspect its fur from time to time. If you notice signs of illness, such as itching, a visit to the vet is advisable.
Important Note: The content provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, please always consult a licensed veterinarian.
zooplus Editorial Team
The zooplus editorial team consists of a dedicated team of experts with many years of experience in the field of animal husbandry: Luisa with her White Swiss Shepherd Elyos, Laura, Julio, and Florian. Together with a large network of animal experts, we work to make the zooplus magazine a trusted source of information for all animal owners and lovers. Our goal is to provide exciting animal knowledge and relevant information on the proper care of pets.
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