Ear mites in dogs: symptoms and treatment

Ear mites in dogs are an external parasite that lives in the outer ear of an animal. If left untreated, infection with ear mites leads to the disease otodectosis with serious consequences. The ectoparasite is widespread in the dog population. The difficulty of dealing with it is that the disease can be transmitted between animals of other species (cats, foxes, ferrets). Dog owners should know what a tick looks like, symptoms and methods of diagnosing otodecosis, control and prevention measures in order to provide timely assistance to their pet. In our material we have collected all the necessary information about this pathology.

What is an ear mite

Ear mites are microscopic ectoparasites that live in the inner ear of dogs. The scientific name of this mite is Otodectes cynotis. The eight-legged parasite, similar to a spider, is very small, its dimensions do not reach 1 mm. The environment in a dog's ear is ideal for the growth, development and reproduction of mites.

Once in the ear, the parasite chews the skin - it feeds on lymphatic (ichor) and tissue fluids. Female mites are very fertile, capable of laying 5 to 10 eggs per day. After a few days, the eggs hatch into larvae, which reach adulthood and sexual maturity after three weeks. If treatment is not started, this process can continue indefinitely .

Risk group

The infestation of the dog population with ear mites is very high. However, not all infected dogs suffer from otodectosis. In order for a colony of parasites to multiply so much that the dog gets sick, certain conditions must exist.

At risk for otodectosis:

Young dogs (up to 6 months).
Long-eared breeds and dogs with furry ears: spaniels, Yorkies, dachshunds.
Hunting dogs. They can become infected from wild animals.
Puppies that have not been treated with antiparasitic drugs.
Dogs with weakened immune systems, sick animals, pets in recovery, exhausted dogs.
Animals living together in shelters and dog hotels.
Homeless, stray dogs.

Important!
The main source of ear scabies infection is stray dogs. Try to protect your pet from contact with them.

Routes of infection

No dog is protected from infection with ear mites, so all owners

We must know where these parasites come from.

A dog can become infected with otodectosis:

upon contact with a sick animal (dog, cat, ferret, fox);
puppies with undeveloped immunity - from a mother infected with a tick;
through a person who had contact with a carrier animal;
through general grooming items and dog accessories (combs, collars, leashes, bedding, toys);
through external parasites - fleas can be carriers of tick larvae;
through a person's street shoes and clothing.

Important!
Take precautions: do not use other people's accessories, do not allow the dog to come into contact with dirty outdoor shoes and clothes.

Can you see ear mites?

Without special equipment it is very difficult to recognize this parasite - it has microscopic dimensions. But, if your dog constantly scratches his ear and you see black dirt in his ear, you can try this before visiting the clinic.

What you will need:

a sheet of black (dark paper);
cotton buds;
magnifying glass (loupe);
bright light source (flashlight, table lamp).

Algorithm of actions:

take a cotton swab and carefully collect the contents of the ear;
make a dab with a cotton swab on a sheet of black paper;
point a bright light source at the area of the stroke;
try looking at the smear through a magnifying glass.

If you see microscopic white moving dots, your dog is infected with ear mites.

Important!
Even if you were able to see the parasites, the diagnosis must be made by a veterinarian after examining the dog and clinical tests.

Consequences of infection - what is the danger

Don't underestimate the dangers of ear mite infestation. The parasite is very small, but the consequences of otodectosis can be serious and dangerous to the health and life of the pet.

Otitis.
Decreased and complete loss of hearing.
Attachment of a secondary infection, suppuration of the ear.
Inflammatory process in the eardrum, violation of its integrity.
Meningitis.
In rare cases, death.

Important!
Only timely diagnosis and the correct treatment regimen can protect your pet from these serious consequences of otodectosis.

Dangerous disease

Unlike parasites such as fleas and common mites, which stick to the body for the purpose of saturation, scabies parasitize the body constantly and do not leave it. An important role in this case is played by the animal’s immune system. At the early stage of infection, it protects the body and helps in the fight against the microscopic parasite, but without treatment the disease wins. Therefore, treatment must begin at the first symptoms in order to avoid serious situations.

If we talk about symptoms, then, of course, the main and first sign is severe itching. It appears approximately 15 days after the initial infection. This time interval is due to the fact that the female that gets on the body lays eggs and after 15 days they grow into adults, which cause symptoms.

As it develops, complications appear:

If we talk about itching, then as a separate symptom it is not dangerous, but its presence has a strong influence on the dog’s behavior and his life. Itching causes great discomfort; the animal is constantly itching and cannot sleep normally. This in turn affects appetite and general condition, the pet is exhausted and the immune system suffers.
The waste products of these parasites are toxic substances that enter the blood and cause toxic reactions. The development of the disease causes a large increase in the population, which means the amount of toxic substances increases.
When a dog scratches itself, it damages the skin and dermatitis appears on the affected areas, which is quite painful for the pet. Over time, a hard crust appears on the skin, which does not allow air to pass through. This leads to the development of purulent-putrefactive microflora and purulent infections underneath it. They are dangerous because they do not affect the upper epidermis, but penetrate into deeper layers.
The pet increasingly refuses to eat, the weight decreases significantly and the animal becomes weaker. Serious disturbances in metabolic processes are observed, the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin decreases.

Without the use of drugs, the disease becomes severe. This affects the functioning of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Neglected forms can be fatal.

Symptoms of ear mange in dogs

You should know how otodectosis manifests itself. As soon as you notice at least one of these signs in your pet, immediately take your dog to the veterinarian. Ear mites reproduce very quickly, so it is important to begin treatment immediately.

Signs indicating ear scabies:

severe itching;
the dog shakes its head as if it wants to shake something out of its ear;
the animal often tilts its head to the side;
scratched head and ears;
dark solid discharge from the ears (grains similar to ground coffee);
unpleasant odor from the ear;
baldness around the ears, scabs;
depressed state of the dog, refusal to eat.

All these symptoms can be the result of other diseases (allergies, dermatitis), so do not self-medicate. Give the veterinary specialist the opportunity to examine the dog and take biological material from it for research.

Important!
Do not try to clean your dog's ear yourself before visiting the clinic - there should be some discharge left in the ear to be examined for ticks.

Symptoms

We have already described some of the symptoms of this disease, but we must remember that the clinical manifestations of otodectosis can be much more diverse. Here are the most frequently encountered signs in veterinary practice:

A dog may constantly scratch not only its ears, but also its entire head, as well as its neck.

Sometimes the entire body may itch (in puppies and young dogs).

The ears and muzzle are constantly scratched, and in severe cases there are even deep tears in the skin.

The animal often shakes its head.

Many crusts of dried exudate appear on the outer surfaces of the auricle and in the ear canal itself. Their color varies from dark brown to blackish. The animal does not look very presentable.

If you take an ordinary cotton swab and “rummage” inside a dog’s ear, you can get a mass of thick, foul-smelling exudate that is literally teeming with mites.

In cases where the animal’s immunity is severely weakened, scabs may even appear on the neck, tail and entire face.

Diagnostics

Treatment of otodectosis begins only after confirmation of the diagnosis in a veterinary clinic. Ear mites can only be identified after laboratory testing of the ear contents (discharge).

The doctor scrapes the ear and applies the collected contaminants to a laboratory glass and presses it on top with a cover glass. All this is placed under a microscope for examination. If there were parasites in the scraping, they will be visible under a microscope.

The second diagnostic method involves examining the animal’s ears using a magnifying otoscope. An otoscope helps to see parasites, their eggs and larvae.

Additionally, bacterial culture and cytological examination of earwax may be prescribed. In this way, concomitant diseases (bacterial and fungal infections) can be identified.

Diagnosis of otodectosis in dogs

If you notice otodectosis in a dog, then it is worth remembering that the treatment, medications and duration of administration should be prescribed by a veterinarian. It often happens that the owners do not complete the course of therapy. In this case, the parasite may survive, but your pet will have to experience pain, itching and medication again. But, first of all, we need to be sure that it is an ear mite.

First of all, the doctor will collect anamnesis, conduct a visual examination of the ear cavity, take a smear, and examine its contents under a microscope. In most cases, this is enough for diagnosis. In advanced stages of the disease, the following may additionally be required: x-ray, bacterial culture or computed tomography. Treatment of otodectosis in dogs should not be started without all the necessary research.

Treatment of ear mites in dogs

We would like to warn lovers of traditional and non-traditional methods of treatment - do not even try, this parasitic disease cannot be treated in such ways . Don't experiment and don't waste time. Otodectosis can only be treated with traditional medicine!

Owners of sick pets should be prepared for long-term therapy. Ear scabies can take one to several months to cure. The treatment regimen and medications are prescribed by the veterinarian depending on the severity of the disease. He also decides whether the dog requires inpatient treatment or whether therapy can be carried out at home.

Treatment in the clinic

Inpatient treatment may be necessary if the vestibular apparatus of the ear is affected. The doctor will leave the animal in the clinic for further observation and therapy. If necessary, a decision will be made on surgical intervention. All other cases do not require treatment in the clinic; the animal is sent home after examination and appointments.

How to cure at home

The first thing to do if your pet is diagnosed with otodectosis and prescribed treatment is to thoroughly clean the auricle and ear canal. This is an important part of treatment that cannot be avoided. Thoroughly cleaned ears increase the effectiveness of medications.

How to properly clean a dog's ears

First, try cleaning the ears without restraining the animal. If you don't succeed, ask someone in your household to help you. Small dogs and puppies can be wrapped in a towel or blanket. If your dog is aggressive, muzzle it to prevent it from biting you.

drop a few drops of saline solution into each ear and massage the base of the auricle for 2-5 minutes;
after this, straighten the dog’s ear and begin to clean the ear gently with a cotton pad soaked in saline solution or ear cleaning lotion;
change discs as often as possible;
treat all anatomical grooves to thoroughly clean the ear.

Lotions for hygienic ear cleaning:

Bars (Russia);
BEAPHAR Ear Cleaner (Netherlands);
VEDA (Russia);
Otifry (Poland);
Beekeeper “Ushastik” (Russia);
PROSENSE Ear Cleansing Liquid (USA);
Epi-Otique (France);
8 in 1 EXCEL (USA).

Important!
Do not use hydrogen peroxide or other aggressive agents to clean the inner surface of the ear. These drugs can only be used for spot treatment of abrasions and wounds on the auricle.

What is included in the treatment regimen for otodectosis?

The process of treating ear scabies includes several mandatory steps:

Elimination of itching and pain. For this purpose, antihistamines and antiseptics are used.
Thoroughly clean the ear of secretions and dirt. Both hygienic ear solutions and saline solution are used.
Acaricidal drugs. The type, brand and frequency of treatment are prescribed by a veterinarian.
Preventive treatment against external parasites (ticks, fleas, lice eaters).
Antibacterial and antifungal therapy is prescribed in case of secondary infection.

When prescribing a treatment regimen, the doctor takes into account the condition of the dog, its age, the degree of invasion and the presence of secondary infections. Each of the stages is important in the treatment regimen for otodectosis.

How to apply medicine or drops

For dogs of long-haired breeds, the hair from the inner surface of the ears is cut off during therapy in order to increase the effectiveness of treatment procedures.
The auricle is turned out - carefully straightened towards the back of the head.
The spout of a bottle with drops or a tube of ointment is inserted into the ear canal so that the medicine can be dosed.
After applying the medicine, the ear is returned to its original position and gently massaged for 1 minute.
If manipulations cause discomfort to the animal, you need to calm it down and distract it with a treat or toy.

Important!
The pathology is highly contagious, so all animals that come into contact with a sick dog must undergo antiparasitic treatment. In addition, the pet’s habitat is disinfected.

Preparations for the treatment of otodectosis in dogs

Stronghold

The best remedy for otodectosis. A highly effective drug produced by Zoetis (Pfizer) (USA). Destroys ear mites and serves as a means of preventing re-infection. The product is characterized by low toxicity. The drug has a complex effect, fights external and internal parasites.

How to use:

The pipette with the medicine is cut and the entire contents are squeezed out onto the skin along the spine. Requires one-time use. The medicine enters the dog's bloodstream and destroys ticks. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe re-treatment a month after the first application.

Contraindications:

puppies up to 1.5 months;
pregnancy and lactation;
weakened immunity, recovery period after illness;
violation of the integrity of the eardrum;
individual intolerance.

Price: 3 pipettes – 1170-2600 rub./180-900 UAH.

Otoferonol Gold

The targeted drug is effective only against ear mites. Ear drops relieve itching and have a healing effect. The medicine is practically not absorbed into the skin of the animal and acts locally.

How to use:

Before instilling the medicine, the dog's ears are cleaned of scabs and dirt. After this, the drops are instilled into each ear. Dosage: small dogs - 3 drops, medium - 4 drops, large dogs - 5 drops. the treatment is repeated after 5-7 days.

Contraindications:

individual allergic reaction;
violation of the integrity of the eardrum;
puppies up to 2 months;
pregnancy;
lactation period;
weakened and sick animals.

Price: bottle (10 ml.) – 90 rub./40 UAH.

Frontline Spot On

French-made drops with high effectiveness against ear mites. Available in drops, the packaging is an individual disposable pipette. Effective against larvae and adults. It has a complex effect, destroys fleas, lice, lice and ixodid ticks.

How to use:

Place 4-6 drops into clean ears. After this, the ears are massaged at the base. Processing is carried out once.

Contraindications:

puppies up to 2 months;
individual intolerance.

Price: 1 pipette – 550 rub./260 UAH.

Oricin

Insectoacaricidal drug for the treatment of otitis and otodectosis. Relieves itching and inflammation, destroys ear mites, and serves as an effective preventative.

How to use:

The prescribed number of drops is instilled into both ears - from 2 to 5. Treatment is carried out twice a day for 3-7 days.

Contraindications:

violation of the integrity of the eardrum;
individual allergic reaction.

Price: bottle (25 ml.) – 550 rub.

Oridermyl

Ointment for ear scabies. A broad-spectrum drug is prescribed to dogs with otodectosis, which is complicated by a bacterial or fungal infection.

How to use:

The ears are hygienically cleaned and 0.5 cm of ointment is injected into the ear canal. After this, massage the base of the ear for 1 minute.

Contraindications:

the weight of the animal is less than 1.5 kg;
violation of the integrity of the eardrum;
individual intolerance.

Price: tube (10 g.) – 800 rub./200 UAH.

Important!
During the treatment process, there is a possibility that some of the parasites will leave the ear. Examine your pet and observe its behavior. If necessary, the veterinarian may prescribe additional treatment of the dog with antiparasitic drugs (Bars, Prazicide).

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JRhOSkuL4E

Therapeutic measures

When treating, it is useful to use local and general agents. It has been noted that mites can parasitize not only in the ear canal; otodectosis often affects the neck, root of the tail, and groin area. You should also use drugs to suppress secondary infection, strengthening agents.

Local therapy for ear scabies in dogs:

softening of crusts and ear plugs with special means or aqueous solutions of potassium permanganate, furatsilin;
cleaning the ear canal with cotton swabs;
the use of special products - water- or oil-based solutions, ointments, dusts;
repeat the procedure after 5-7 days.

Special lotions have been developed that liquefy ear crusts and have a certain disinfecting effect. But you can do without them - it is enough to have furatsilin, boric acid, rivanol or another disinfectant without a pronounced irritating effect. Cotton swabs are moistened with these solutions and the ear canal is carefully cleaned. It is important to completely clean the surface of the skin from crusts, as they will prevent the penetration of medications.

Various drugs are used as special treatment:

the drug Advocate (or its analogues containing imidacloprid and moxidectin);
ivemectin, Ivomek, pyrmethrin, aversect - subcutaneously, allows you to get rid of all types of mites;
aerosols and drops Bars, its analogs have average activity, can be used together with systemic agents;
alcohol tincture of hellebore - requires frequent use (every 1-2 days, for 7-10 days);
oil solution of chlorophos in 1% concentration;
0.5% solution of the third fraction of ASD;
sulfur or phenothiazine dust – no more than 0.5 g.

After introducing drops or liniments, you must carefully massage the base of the ear. This allows you to better moisten the skin with the active substance and quickly absorb it. Ointments that have anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic effects - sulfur ointment, Wilkinson's liniment, Konkov's ointment - should be applied to the affected areas of the inner surface of the auricle.

In case of otitis caused by a secondary infection, it is necessary to carry out a circular blockade. Novocaine mixed with antibiotics (penicillin, streptomycin) is injected under the skin around the base of the auricle. This allows you to eliminate pathogenic microflora, avoid further complications, reduce itching and the inflammatory reaction. If complicated otodectosis is observed in dogs, treatment is supplemented with painkillers, antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs. Maintenance therapy is also carried out - intravenous infusions for additional nutrition and removal of toxins.

Prevention

Otodectosis is a highly contagious disease that requires a long course of treatment. To protect your pet from this infection, you need to follow the following prevention methods:

Inspect and clean your pet's ears weekly using hygiene products.
Carry out anti-parasitic treatment of the dog quarterly.
Observe hygiene measures. Keep the animal's habitat clean.
Never use other people's accessories and grooming items (leashes, collars, toys, combs).
Clean the premises with insecticides monthly.
Avoid direct contact between your dog and stray dogs.

FAQ

Can a dog spread ear mites to other pets?

Yes. At risk are dogs, cats, ferrets, and raccoons. All animals in contact must undergo treatment.

Can a person get ear mites from a dog?

Yes, ticks can move onto the human body, but they only parasitize animals; they quickly die on humans. The risk of infection is minimal; there is no need to be afraid of contact with your pet due to the fact that the tick is transmitted to humans.

However, some people prone to allergic reactions may develop a condition called “false scabies.” The symptoms of this allergic reaction are similar to those of otodectosis. This condition does not require treatment - as soon as the dog is cured, the person will lose all symptoms.

Owner stories

Svetlana : “We adopted a dog from a shelter. She constantly scratched one ear. When she was examined by a veterinarian, it was discovered that she had ear scabies. The doctor prescribed Otoferonol Gold drops and said they were effective. Both ears were treated three times. There was a one-week interval between treatments. The dog was cured and the ticks were removed. For prevention, we treated the dog with Prazicide, it helps remove all external parasites.”

Nikita : “I still don’t understand where my dog picked up this infection. I admit honestly that I did not look into the ears of my pet, and did not know how to understand that the dog was sick. We went to the vet when he scratched his ear until it bled. There they took a scraping from us and found a tick under a microscope. The doctor himself cleaned my Rex’s ears, I had no idea how to do it. We were prescribed Stronghold drops for the withers. They need to be used once. A month later we went to the vet and found no ticks on the dog.”

Video: