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Parásitos

Ear mites (Otodectes)

Infestation of the ear canal by the Otodectes mite. Highly contagious between animals. A common cause of otitis, especially in puppies and kittens.

Mild🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats🐰 Rabbits Contagious

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Intense ear itching: the animal scratches and shakes its head
  • • Abundant dark wax, resembling coffee grounds
  • • Bad odour from the ear
  • • Sores from scratching around the ears
  • • Inflammation of the ear canal

Causes

The Otodectes cynotis mite, highly contagious through direct contact. Common in young animals and in group living situations.

Diagnosis

The vet examines the ear with an otoscope and/or identifies the mites under the microscope in a wax sample.

Treatment

Ear cleaning plus a specific antiparasitic (many modern antiparasitic spot-on treatments cover them). Treat all animals in contact.

Prevention

Regular external antiparasitic treatment (several cover ear mites). Check the ears of any new animals.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your pet is scratching its ears and shaking its head, or if you notice abundant dark wax. Do not clean the ear deeply without a diagnosis, as you could make it worse.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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