Ear mites are tiny (nearly microscopic) white parasites that live in the ear canals of dogs and cats.  These mites are highly contagious and frequently infest whole litters of puppies and kittens. 

If more than one dog or cat is present in the home, and one is found to be infested,

then ALL PETS should be carefully examined for ear mites and treated.

If possible, keep your pet separated from pets that are not infested.

Head shaking and ear scratching are common signs of ear problems. Severe ear infections may develop as a result of injury to the ear canal by the mites.  A dark, crusty material is usually found in the affected ear canals. Sometimes the discharge can be different in color. A microscopic exam is necessary to diagnose the cause of the discharge (i.e. mites, yeast, bacteria, polyps) and determine the best medication to use.

In most cases, the ears require a thorough cleaning before treatment.  An anesthetic may be necessary in severe cases or extremely painful ears to allow complete cleaning.

Apply all medication as directed by your veterinarian.

Several treatment options are available that is best suited for your pet in order to kill the mites.

A common treatment regimen is as follows:

Apply Tresaderm drops to both ears and rub in well at base of ear. Use morning and night for 7 to 10 days, discontinue for 7 days, then restart again for 7 more days.  By repeating treatment the third week, any immature mite stages potentially missed during the first week of treatment should be killed.

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur

♦ Your pet develops a head tilt or loss of balance.

♦ Your pet vomits or refuses to eat

♦ Your pet’s general health changes

♦ You are not able to administer the ear medication.