Instruction: how to determine if a dog has ear mites.

Introduction

What are ear mites?

Ear mites, scientifically known as Otodectes cynotis, are microscopic arthropods that colonize the external auditory canal of dogs. Adult mites measure approximately 0.3 mm in length, possess a flattened, oval body, and bear four pairs of legs adapted for clinging to the delicate skin of the ear canal. Their life cycle spans 2-3 weeks, progressing through egg, larval, nymph, and adult stages, each occurring within the same host environment.

Mite populations thrive in warm, humid conditions and spread primarily through direct contact between animals. Transmission can occur during grooming, play, or mating, and infestations often affect puppies and dogs housed in multi‑animal environments. Because mites feed on skin debris and ear wax, they provoke irritation that leads to secondary inflammation.

Typical clinical signs associated with ear mite infestation include:

Dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds within the ear canal
Intense scratching or head shaking
Redness and swelling of the ear margins
Foul odor emanating from the ear

Recognition of these indicators is essential for accurate diagnosis, as they differentiate mite infestation from bacterial or yeast otitis, which present with purulent discharge and different odor profiles. Early identification enables prompt treatment and prevents spread to other pets.

Why is early detection important?

Early detection of ear mites in dogs prevents rapid escalation of discomfort and tissue damage. The parasites multiply quickly; a small initial infestation can become a severe inflammatory condition within days. Prompt identification stops this progression, preserving the delicate skin of the ear canal and reducing the risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections that often follow prolonged irritation.

Timely recognition also limits the spread to other pets. Ear mites are highly contagious; an untreated dog can contaminate bedding, grooming tools, and the environment, creating a reservoir for reinfection. Identifying the problem early allows owners to isolate the affected animal and implement appropriate treatment, protecting the entire household.

From a treatment standpoint, early-stage infestations respond more readily to standard acaricidal therapies. When the mite population is low, a single course of medication frequently achieves complete eradication. Advanced cases may require multiple treatments, extended medication periods, and supportive care, increasing cost and complexity.

Finally, early intervention minimizes the emotional stress for both the dog and the owner. Persistent itching, head shaking, and foul odor cause distress and can lead to behavioral issues if left unchecked. Addressing ear mites at the first signs restores comfort, improves quality of life, and reinforces the bond between pet and caregiver.

Recognizing Symptoms of Ear Mites

Behavioral Changes

2.1.1 Head shaking

Head shaking is one of the most immediate indicators that a dog’s ears may be infested with mites. The behavior results from irritation of the ear canal, where microscopic parasites cause inflammation and excess wax production. When the inner ear becomes itchy, the animal reflexively jerks its head to alleviate discomfort; this action often occurs repeatedly throughout the day.

Key characteristics of mite‑related shaking include:

Frequency: more than occasional tilts; the dog shakes its head several times per hour.
Intensity: vigorous, sometimes accompanied by a snapping motion of the jaw.
Timing: may increase after bathing, grooming, or exposure to moisture, as the warm, humid environment amplifies irritation.

Veterinarians observe that shaking alone does not confirm an infestation, but when combined with other signs-such as dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds, foul odor, and redness of the ear canal-it becomes a reliable diagnostic cue. Prompt identification of head shaking allows early intervention, reducing the risk of secondary infections and permanent damage to the auditory structures.

2.1.2 Scratching

Scratching is a primary behavioral indicator that a dog may be suffering from ear mites. The animal typically directs rapid, repetitive motions toward one ear, often using the hind leg. This behavior differs from occasional ear cleaning; it persists for minutes at a time and may be accompanied by head shaking.

Key characteristics of mite‑related scratching include:

Localized focus - the dog concentrates on the affected ear rather than alternating between ears.
Intensity - the dog applies forceful, repeated strokes, sometimes causing visible trauma to the ear flap.
Frequency - episodes occur several times throughout the day, especially after rest periods.
Accompanying signs - dark, crumbly debris (resembling coffee grounds) may be visible in the ear canal; a foul odor often accompanies the debris.

Distinguishing mite‑induced scratching from other conditions requires careful observation. Flea allergies, bacterial infections, or foreign bodies can also provoke ear rubbing, but these typically produce swelling, redness, or a watery discharge rather than the dry, gritty debris characteristic of mite infestations. If scratching persists despite routine cleaning, a veterinary examination with otoscopic inspection is warranted to confirm the presence of mites and to initiate appropriate treatment.

2.1.3 Rubbing ears

Rubbing a dog’s ears offers direct insight into the presence of ear mites. When an examiner gently massages the external ear canal, several diagnostic cues become apparent.

A dark, crumbly material that adheres to the finger indicates mite debris. The substance often resembles coffee grounds and may be mixed with wax.
Intense itching or sudden flinching during the rub suggests irritation caused by active parasites.
Redness or swelling of the ear canal walls points to secondary inflammation, frequently associated with mite infestation.
A foul, yeasty odor accompanying the rub reinforces the likelihood of a microbial overgrowth that commonly follows mite colonization.

To perform the assessment, use a clean cotton swab or gloved fingertip. Apply light pressure, moving from the base of the ear outward. Observe the material that transfers to the swab and note any immediate behavioral reactions. Record the findings and compare them with established clinical criteria for otic parasitism.

2.1.4 Whining or yelping

When a dog exhibits frequent whining or yelping, the sound often signals discomfort localized to the ears. Ear mites create intense irritation by feeding on skin debris and secreting inflammatory substances, which provoke sharp pain that the animal expresses through vocal distress.

The vocalization typically intensifies during ear handling, grooming, or when the dog lies on its side. Dogs may also whine when the affected ear is touched inadvertently, indicating a direct link between the sound and ear pathology rather than a general anxiety response.

To evaluate whether the whining is associated with an ear‑mite infestation, follow these observations:

Notice if the whining occurs specifically when the ears are examined or scratched.
Observe accompanying signs such as head shaking, scratching at the ear, or a dark, waxy discharge.
Check for a foul odor emanating from the ear canal, which often accompanies mite activity.
Gently tilt the ear flap and look for tiny moving specks or a dusty debris layer, characteristic of mite presence.

If the whining coincides with these ear‑focused behaviors, the likelihood of ear mites is high and a veterinary examination should be scheduled promptly. Early detection prevents secondary infections and reduces prolonged discomfort for the dog.

Visible Signs

2.2.1 Dark, waxy discharge

Dark, waxy discharge is a hallmark indicator when evaluating a canine for ear mite infestation. The material appears as a thick, brownish to black crust that adheres tightly to the ear canal walls. Its consistency resembles melted candle wax, making it difficult to remove without proper tools.

The discharge results from the mites’ feeding activity, which damages the delicate skin lining the ear canal. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, leading to excess production of cerumen that becomes oxidized and darkened. The presence of this material often coincides with intense itching, head shaking, and occasional foul odor, but the discharge itself provides the most reliable visual cue.

When examining the ear, gently retract the pinna and use a bright otoscopic light. Observe the following characteristics:

Color: deep brown to black, indicating oxidation of ear wax.
Texture: gelatinous, semi-solid, and adherent.
Distribution: concentrated near the base of the ear canal, sometimes extending outward as a crusted rim.

Differentiation from other conditions is essential. Bacterial or yeast infections may produce yellowish or creamy exudate, while foreign bodies typically generate clear or serous fluid. The dark, waxy nature of the discharge, combined with its tenacious adherence, strongly points to mite activity.

If the described discharge is present, collect a small sample with a sterile swab for microscopic examination. Under low magnification, the mites or their eggs (oval, translucent) should be visible. Confirmation allows immediate initiation of acaricidal therapy, such as topical ivermectin or selamectin, followed by thorough cleaning of the ear canal to remove residual wax.

In practice, the detection of dark, waxy discharge streamlines the diagnostic process, reducing reliance on extensive laboratory work and enabling prompt treatment to prevent secondary infections and chronic ear damage.

2.2.2 Redness and inflammation

Redness and inflammation are among the most reliable external indicators that a canine ear may be infested with ear mites. The affected ear typically exhibits a pink to deep red hue that extends beyond the outer canal, often accompanied by swelling of the ear flap. This vascular response results from the mites’ feeding activity, which irritates the skin and triggers an immune reaction.

Key observations for accurate assessment include:

Uniformity of redness - ear mite‑induced inflammation usually spreads evenly across the canal, whereas bacterial infections often produce localized patches.
Presence of a watery or waxy discharge - a thin, brownish fluid mixed with dark debris is characteristic; the fluid may appear more abundant when the ear is manipulated.
Heat sensation - the inflamed area feels warmer than surrounding tissue, reflecting increased blood flow.

To differentiate ear mite inflammation from other otic conditions, perform a visual inspection under adequate lighting and, if possible, a gentle swab of the canal contents. Microscopic examination of the sample should reveal live mites or their eggs; their detection confirms that redness is directly linked to mite activity. In the absence of microscopic evidence, consider bacterial or fungal cultures to rule out alternative causes.

Prompt identification of redness and inflammation as mite‑related signs enables early therapeutic intervention, reducing the risk of secondary infections and chronic ear damage.

2.2.3 Scabs or sores

Ear mites often cause irritation that leads to scabs or sores within the ear canal. The constant scratching and head shaking create micro‑trauma; the resulting lesions appear as dry, crusty patches or moist ulcerations near the ear opening. These areas may be covered with black debris, a mixture of wax and mite feces, which hardens into a scab‑like material.

Key characteristics of mite‑related scabs or sores include:

Presence of a thin, gray‑black crust that can be peeled away to reveal raw skin.
Redness and swelling surrounding the lesion, indicating inflammation.
A foul, musty odor accompanying the debris.
Concurrent signs such as excessive ear scratching, shaking, or visible mite movement.

Distinguishing mite‑induced lesions from bacterial or fungal infections requires careful observation. Bacterial infections typically produce thicker, purulent discharge and a more pronounced odor, while fungal infections generate a yeasty smell and a greasy, brownish crust. In contrast, mite lesions are primarily associated with the characteristic black debris and intense itching.

Diagnostic confirmation involves:

Visual inspection with an otoscope to locate scabs and assess ear canal condition.
Microscopic examination of collected debris; slide preparation reveals live mites, eggs, or fecal pellets.
Cytology to rule out secondary bacterial or fungal agents, ensuring appropriate treatment.

When scabs or sores are confirmed as mite‑related, immediate topical therapy-such as a veterinary‑approved acaricide-should be applied according to label directions. Cleaning the ear to remove crusted material before medication improves drug penetration and accelerates healing. Follow‑up examinations after 7‑10 days verify eradication and monitor for residual inflammation.

2.2.4 Hair loss around the ears

Hair loss surrounding a dog’s ears is a reliable indicator of an ear‑mite problem. The parasites irritate the skin, causing the follicles to weaken and shed hair. When the loss is localized to the pinna and the area just behind it, the pattern often points to mite activity rather than a systemic dermatological condition.

Typical characteristics of mite‑related hair loss include:

Patches of thinning hair that may appear uneven.
Redness or inflammation of the skin adjacent to the ear canal.
Presence of dark, crumbly debris that resembles coffee grounds, often mixed with the hair loss.

If the affected region feels warm to the touch or the dog frequently scratches or shakes its head, the likelihood of an infestation increases. A visual inspection combined with a microscopic examination of the debris will confirm the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei or Otodectes cynotis, the common ear‑mite species.

Early detection through observation of hair loss around the ears allows prompt treatment, preventing secondary infections and minimizing discomfort for the animal.

2.2.5 Foul odor

Foul odor emerging from a dog’s ears is a reliable indicator of an infestation by ear mites. The odor typically resembles a strong, musty or rancid smell, distinct from the mild scent of normal ear wax. This scent results from the accumulation of debris, dead mites, and secondary bacterial growth, all of which thrive in the moist environment created by the parasites.

When assessing a dog for ear mites, observe the following:

A pronounced, unpleasant smell emanating from the ear canal.
Dark, crusty discharge that may appear brown, black, or gray.
Frequent scratching or head shaking, often accompanying the odor.
Visible tiny moving specks (mites) or a dusty residue when the ear is examined.

If foul odor is present alongside these signs, perform a microscopic examination of a swab sample to confirm the presence of otodectes cynotis. Prompt treatment with acaricidal medication will eliminate the mites, reduce the odor, and restore ear health.

Performing an At-Home Check

Gathering Supplies

3.1.1 Flashlight

A flashlight is essential for a clear view of a dog’s ear canal when checking for ear mites. The bright, focused beam reveals debris, inflammation, and the characteristic dark specks of mites that are otherwise hidden in low‑light conditions.

When using a flashlight for this purpose, follow these steps:

Gently lift the ear flap to expose the canal.
Position the flashlight at a low angle to reduce glare.
Observe the ear surface for brownish‑black dots (mite feces) and any white, moving organisms.
Note any excessive wax, redness, or foul odor, which often accompany mite infestations.

A handheld LED flashlight with adjustable brightness provides the necessary illumination without overheating the delicate tissue. Selecting a model with a narrow beam concentrates light on the targeted area, minimizing reflections from the ear walls.

Consistent use of a flashlight during routine examinations improves early detection, allowing prompt treatment and preventing secondary infections.

3.1.2 Cotton balls or swabs

Cotton balls and swabs are essential tools when assessing a dog’s ears for mite infestation. Their softness prevents trauma to the delicate ear canal while allowing precise collection of debris for examination.

To use a cotton ball or swab effectively, follow these steps:

Prepare the area - Lightly warm the cotton to increase flexibility; avoid excessive heat that could cause burns.
Inspect the ear opening - Gently pull the ear flap back to reveal the canal. Look for dark, crumbly material resembling coffee grounds; this is a typical sign of mite excrement.
Collect a sample - Roll the cotton gently against the visible debris. The fibers should become stained dark, indicating the presence of mite waste or bodies.
Examine the sample - Place the cotton on a white surface or a microscope slide. Dark specks or tiny moving organisms confirm infestation.
Dispose safely - Seal the used cotton in a plastic bag and discard according to veterinary waste guidelines to prevent cross‑contamination.

When sampling, apply minimal pressure; excessive force can push debris deeper and obscure diagnosis. If the cotton becomes saturated quickly, replace it with a fresh swab to maintain clarity. Consistent use of these simple instruments provides reliable visual evidence of ear mites, facilitating timely treatment.

3.1.3 Magnifying glass (optional)

A magnifying glass can enhance visual inspection of a dog’s ear canal when assessing for ear mites, though it is not mandatory. The instrument enlarges the surface of the ear canal, allowing the examiner to detect the minute, translucent mites and their fecal debris (often described as “black pepper”) that may be missed with the naked eye.

When employing a magnifying glass, follow these steps:

Hold the glass at a comfortable distance, typically 2-3 cm from the ear opening, to achieve 2-5× magnification without distorting the view.
Illuminate the area with a handheld LED light or a well‑lit environment; adequate lighting prevents shadows that can obscure the mites.
Gently part the fur around the ear and, if necessary, use a soft cotton tip to clear excess wax, creating a clear field for observation.
Scan the visible canal wall, looking for the characteristic oval-shaped mites (≈ 0.2 mm) and their dark specks.

Benefits of using a magnifying glass include increased diagnostic confidence and reduced reliance on laboratory analysis. The tool is inexpensive, portable, and easy to sterilize with alcohol wipes between examinations, minimizing cross‑contamination risk.

If a magnifying glass is unavailable, a veterinarian’s otoscope or a smartphone macro lens can serve as alternatives, but the optional magnifier remains a practical addition for owners or technicians performing preliminary checks.

Examining the Outer Ear

3.2.1 Visual inspection

When examining a dog’s ears for mites, begin with a calm, restrained approach to minimize stress. Gently lift the pinna and illuminate the ear canal with a bright otoscope or a flashlight held at an angle that reduces glare. Observe the external surface for erythema, swelling, or crust formation.

Key visual indicators include:

Dark, coffee‑ground‑like debris adhering to the hair and canal walls
Excessive wax that appears dry, flaky, or clumped
Redness or irritation of the ear canal lining
Visible tiny, moving organisms or translucent specks that may resemble dust
Signs of secondary infection, such as pus or a foul odor

If any of these signs are present, collect a sample of the debris on a clean slide or cotton swab for microscopic examination. Document the findings with photographs when possible, as they provide a baseline for monitoring treatment response.

3.2.2 Gentle palpation

Gentle palpation is a direct, low‑stress method for assessing ear mite infestation in dogs. The examiner places the animal in a calm position, supports the head, and uses the pads of the index and middle fingers to apply light pressure to the outer ear canal. The goal is to feel for characteristic debris without inserting instruments deep into the canal.

Key observations during palpation:

A gritty, dark brown or black crust that adheres to the skin.
Accumulation of wax mixed with fine, grain‑like particles that move when the ear is manipulated.
Localized erythema or swelling that may accompany the debris.
Absence of fluid that would suggest bacterial otitis rather than mite activity.

Technique steps:

Restrain the dog gently, using a leash or a calm‑holding position.
Wash hands and wear disposable gloves to prevent cross‑contamination.
Hold the ear upright; place fingertips against the vertical ear canal opening.
Apply a soft, rolling motion, feeling for the texture described above.
Note any resistance, pain response, or abnormal secretions; discontinue if the dog shows discomfort.

Interpretation: palpable, gritty material that slides under light pressure strongly indicates the presence of ear mites. If the texture is smooth or only wax is present, consider alternative diagnoses such as bacterial or yeast infections. Gentle palpation, when combined with visual inspection and microscopic examination of collected debris, provides reliable early detection of ear mite infestation.

Examining the Inner Ear Canal

3.3.1 Using a flashlight

When inspecting a canine’s ear for mites, a focused beam of light can reveal key signs that are otherwise difficult to see. The flashlight should emit a cool, white illumination to avoid heating the delicate ear canal. Hold the device about two inches from the opening, directing the light toward the inner surface while gently pulling the ear flap back to expose the canal.

Position the light source at an angle that minimizes glare on the wax.
Observe the ear skin for fine, moving specks that resemble dust particles; these are often adult mites.
Look for dark, oval-shaped fecal pellets (ear debris) that may appear as tiny black dots against the wax.
Note any excessive moisture or inflammation, which can accompany mite infestations.
If the flashlight reveals a dense population of moving specks or abundant debris, collect a sample with a cotton swab for microscopic confirmation.

The technique relies on the contrast created by the light, allowing the practitioner to differentiate live parasites from static debris. Proper use of a flashlight reduces the need for invasive tools and provides immediate visual evidence to guide further diagnostic steps.

3.3.2 Looking for debris

When examining a canine ear for potential mite infestation, the presence of debris offers a direct clue. Ear mites produce a characteristic buildup that differs from normal wax or environmental dirt.

Dark, coffee‑ground particles: These tiny, crumbly fragments often accumulate near the ear canal opening. Their coloration results from digested blood mixed with mite feces.
Fine, silvery dust: A light, powdery residue may coat the inner surface of the pinna. This material consists of shed exoskeletons and excrement.
Sticky, brownish clumps: Thick, adhesive masses can form when debris combines with ear wax. Their consistency makes them visible to the naked eye and easy to lift with a cotton swab.
Odor‑laden discharge: A foul, yeasty smell frequently accompanies the debris, indicating bacterial overgrowth secondary to mite activity.

To assess debris accurately, gently part the hair around the ear canal, then use a bright light source to inspect the area. A diagnostic microscope can confirm mite presence by revealing the particles’ shape and size. If any of the described debris types appear, further testing or treatment should follow promptly.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention

Confirming Diagnosis

When a dog shows signs of ear irritation, confirming the presence of ear mites requires a systematic approach. First, observe the clinical presentation: intense scratching, head shaking, dark brown or black debris resembling coffee grounds, and a foul odor. While these signs suggest otitis, they are not definitive for mite infestation.

The confirmation process involves three key steps:

Visual inspection with an otoscope - Insert a handheld otoscope gently into the ear canal. Look for live mites, which appear as tiny, translucent, oval organisms moving among the debris. Their characteristic movement distinguishes them from bacterial or fungal elements.
Microscopic examination of a sample - Using a sterile cotton swab or ear curette, collect a small amount of the ear crust. Place the material on a glass slide with a drop of mineral oil or saline, then examine under a light microscope at 10-40× magnification. Identify adult mites, nymphs, or eggs; the presence of any life stage confirms infestation.
Laboratory analysis if needed - Send the sample to a veterinary diagnostic lab for a detailed acarological assessment. The lab can differentiate Otodectes cynotis from other parasites and rule out secondary infections.

Differential diagnosis should include bacterial otitis, yeast overgrowth, foreign bodies, and allergic dermatitis. Conduct a bacterial culture and fungal smear if microscopic findings are inconclusive or if mixed infections are suspected.

A definitive diagnosis is established when live mites or their developmental stages are visualized under the microscope. Once confirmed, initiate appropriate acaricidal therapy and advise owners on cleaning the ear canal to remove residual debris, reducing the risk of reinfestation.

Treatment Options

4.2.1 Prescription medications

Prescription medications are the definitive option for eradicating ear mites once their presence is confirmed through otoscopic examination or cytology. Veterinary‑approved otic solutions contain antiparasitic agents that penetrate the ear canal, kill the mites, and reduce inflammation, allowing clinicians to verify treatment efficacy by the rapid disappearance of cerumen and debris.

Commonly prescribed products include:

Ivermectin‑based otic drops - potent neurotoxin for mites; applied once daily for 7‑10 days.
Selamectin topical solution - systemic and local activity; administered monthly, effective for concurrent skin infestations.
Milbemycin oxime tablets - oral formulation; dosage based on weight, administered every 30 days, covers heartworm and gastrointestinal parasites.
Moxidectin spot‑on - broad‑spectrum; applied to the skin, reaches the ear canal via systemic circulation, dosing interval varies by brand.

Dosage calculations must consider the dog’s weight and the concentration of the active ingredient. Over‑dosage can lead to neurotoxicity, especially in breeds with MDR1 gene mutations. Contraindications include pregnant or lactating females, and dogs with known hypersensitivity to macrocyclic lactones.

Monitoring after the first application is essential. Reduction of otic inflammation and clearing of dark, waxy debris typically occur within 48-72 hours, confirming both therapeutic action and the initial diagnosis. Persistent symptoms after the prescribed course warrant reevaluation for secondary bacterial infection or resistant mite strains, possibly requiring a different prescription or adjunctive therapy.

4.2.2 Ear cleaning procedures

Effective ear cleaning is a critical component of diagnosing otic parasites in dogs. The procedure must be systematic, gentle, and hygienic to avoid trauma and to obtain accurate visual assessment.

Begin by assembling supplies: a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaning solution, sterile gauze or cotton balls, disposable gloves, and a soft towel. Verify that the solution is appropriate for the dog’s size and age; avoid products containing harsh alcohol or strong detergents.

Restrain the dog safely. Use a calm environment and a helper if needed. Apply gentle pressure to the head to keep the ear steady.
Inspect the external ear. Look for erythema, discharge, or debris. Note any foul odor, which may indicate secondary infection.
Apply the cleaning solution. Hold the ear flap upright, fill the canal with enough fluid to reach the deepest point, and allow it to sit for 30-45 seconds. The solution will loosen wax and debris.
Massage the base of the ear. Perform a circular motion for 10-15 seconds to distribute the fluid and dislodge particles.
Drain and wipe. Tilt the head to let excess fluid escape. Use sterile gauze to remove softened debris, moving from the outer canal inward. Do not insert cotton swabs deep into the canal.
Dry the canal. Pat the ear with a clean, dry gauze pad to reduce moisture, which can promote bacterial growth.
Repeat on the opposite ear. Follow identical steps to ensure consistency.

After cleaning, re‑examine the canal with an otoscope. Look for live mites, characteristic black specks, or a “dusty” appearance. Document findings, noting any inflammation or secondary infection that may require additional treatment.

Maintain a regular cleaning schedule-once weekly for dogs prone to ear problems, or as directed by a veterinarian-while monitoring for recurrence of mite signs. Proper technique minimizes discomfort and maximizes diagnostic clarity.

Preventing Re-infestation

4.3.1 Regular ear hygiene

Regular ear hygiene is a fundamental component of early detection of otodectic mange in dogs. Consistent cleaning removes debris, wax, and excess moisture that can conceal the presence of microscopic parasites. By maintaining a clear view of the ear canal, veterinarians and owners can identify characteristic signs-such as dark, crumbly debris, inflammation, and a distinct odor-more reliably.

Practical protocol for routine ear care:

Inspect each ear twice weekly; look for redness, swelling, or unusual discharge.
Apply a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to a cotton ball; avoid inserting the cotton directly into the canal.
Gently wipe the outer ear and the visible portion of the canal, rotating the cotton ball to lift debris.
Allow the dog’s ear to air‑dry for a few minutes before rewarding calm behavior.
Record observations in a log to track changes over time.

Adhering to this schedule reduces the risk of mite colonization progressing unnoticed and facilitates prompt intervention when early symptoms emerge.

4.3.2 Treating all household pets

When ear mites are confirmed in a dog, every animal sharing the same environment must receive treatment to eliminate the infestation and prevent re‑infection. Treating all household pets simultaneously removes the parasite reservoir and protects the health of each companion.

The standard protocol for a multi‑pet household includes:

Veterinary diagnosis for each animal - obtain a microscopic examination of ear debris from dogs, cats, and any other mammals in the home.
Species‑specific medication - apply the recommended otic solution or systemic drug according to the species, weight, and age. Common options are selamectin, ivermectin, or milbemycin, administered as directed.
Complete ear cleaning - gently flush each pet’s ear canal with a veterinarian‑approved cleanser to remove wax, debris, and live mites before medication application.
Repeat dosing schedule - follow the prescribed interval (usually weekly for 2-4 weeks) to interrupt the mite life cycle.
Environmental decontamination - wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water; vacuum carpets and upholstery; use a pet‑safe spray to treat surfaces where mites may reside.
Isolation during treatment - keep treated animals separated for the first 24-48 hours to avoid cross‑contamination, then re‑introduce them only after the final dose.

Monitoring is essential. Re‑examine ear canals after the treatment course; persistent debris or itching indicates a possible residual infestation and may require an additional round of medication. Maintaining a regular ear‑care routine-cleaning and visual inspection-reduces the risk of future outbreaks in all pets sharing the home.