Types of Ear Mites
Most ear mites find a home either on or under the surface of your pet’s skin. Notoedres and Otodectes are the two most common ear mites in pets, with Notoedres being normally found in cats. Although they are referred to as ear mites, these mites can also be found in the body of your pet. Both dogs and cats are affected by Otodectes, which are also found in ferrets and foxes. Demodex is another type of mite, but it usually causes an infection on the head or around the ears rather than inside them.
Cause of Ear Mites
Ear mites can be easily passed from one animal to another, though they are most commonly found in younger pets. Abandoned puppies and kittens are particularly prone to getting ear mites, while older pets are more resistant. Nonetheless, older pets can still have a problem with ear mites. Ear mites can be passed to humans as well, but they die off in a couple of days because humans are not a natural host for these critters.
Identifying an Ear Mite Infection
It is usually quite easy to identify an ear mite infection in your pet because it results in a dry and smelly black discharge in the pet’s ear. Often, this discharge, which is a mixture of earwax, blood, inflammatory biochemicals, and ear mites, looks similar to coffee ground.
Getting Rid of Ear Mites
If you do not treat the ear mites, they can lead to painful ear infections in your pet. Certain types of skin diseases may also result. Certain medications, such as Ilium Ear Drops can be used to get rid of mites. If an infection has set in, you can also use Leo Ear Cleaner to help with the problem. Be sure to follow the directions carefully and to administer the medication for the recommended length of time. Failure to properly eradicate ear mites will cause their life cycle to continue and the ear mite problem will return.
