Ear Mites

They are microscopic insects regarded in the entomologic circles as Otodectes cynotis. They are quite small, but in cats or dogs can create serious problems.  If untreated, they are likely to cause eventual deafness. There are a variety of different types of mites, and they live naturally on dogs; however, mites in large quantities can obviously lead to skin problems for your pet. In addition to Otodectes cynotis, two very common types of mites that can cause mange include Demodex canis (which causes demodectic mange) and Sarcoptes scabei (which causes sarcoptic mange). Demodectic mange is primarily found in dogs with compromised immune systems and puppies.

Unfortunately, ear mites are very contagious and easy to pick up, affecting dogs of all breeds and ages; however, they are seen most frequently in puppies, as they can be transmitted from the mother animal to her offspring. Dogs can be infected by outdoor cats living in the surrounding areas, as they are the primary carrier of ear mites.

Typically passed between pets through casual contact at home or outside, ear mites are actually an arachnid, which is in the same family as ticks and spiders. Ear mites spread rapidly, and can be transmitted during even brief physical contact with other animals. In pets, ear mites commonly affect cats, ferrets, rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, mice and dogs to a lesser extent. Fortunately, humans are generally immune to ear mites.

if left untreated, your dog can suffer from the complications of an ear mite infestation. Incessant head-shaking and scratching of the ears can lead to permanent damage to the external and/or inner ear, as well as ear sensitivity and secondary skin infections.

In more serious cases, aural hematomas can develop. This is when blood vessels inside your dog’s ear flap rupture as the result of chronic scratching and head shaking. The ear flap will appear swollen and is very painful to your pooch, often requiring surgery to correct. In extreme circumstances, ear mites may result in permanent hearing damage or loss in dogs if not treated with appropriate medicines..

What are the indicators of ear mites?

When you see your dog scratching at his ears or shaking his head excessively, it’s rarely a good sign. In the case of ear mites, this common but extremely uncomfortable infection can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Although there are several types of mites that can take up residence in your dog’s ears, the most common species is known as Otodectes cynotis, an almost microscopic, eight-legged parasite that feeds on the wax, oils, and debris in your dog’s ear canal. A foul smell and a signal of dark brown/black waxy substance in the ear are another indication that mites have moved in. They are so small that sometimes they are not visible with the naked eye but can cause severe irritation and inflammation in dogs.   

The life cycle of the ear mite is quite short – in fact, it takes only 3 weeks for a mite to develop from an egg to an adult, going through a total of 5 stages. Adult ear mites live approximately 2 months, reproducing continually throughout this phase.

While the entire ear mite life cycle takes place on the host animal, mites can survive for a short time in the environment. It is therefore important to thoroughly clean your surroundings after an infestation. You will want to visit your veterinarian if any of these symptoms are present:

• Profuse scratching and rubbing of the ears and head
• Excessive head shaking
• A dark brown or black waxy secretion from the ears accompanied by a foul odor
• Obstruction of your dog’s ear canal with a dark, crumbly reddish-brown discharge that resembles coffee grounds
• Signs of inflammation in the ear canal and surrounding areas, which may include wounds, skin lesions/abrasions, infections and redness (excessive scratching can lead to cuts and ear infections)
• A crusted rash and dried blood around or in the ear canal
• Areas of hair loss resulting from self-trauma (i.e., scratching or acute grooming)
• Dog’s ears may be painful to the touch; he may cry in pain when they are touched or while he is scratching them
• An aural hematoma, which is a large blood blister on the ear – this is caused by small blood vessels between the skin & cartilage which have been ruptured due to severe scratching
• In extreme cases of infestation, ear mites may start to migrate to other parts of the body and result in skin irritations in dogs

The cure for Ear Mites.

Otodectes mites must be distinguished from the Sarcoptes mites that are responsible for generalized mange in dogs. Once your vet has confirmed the presence of mites, he or she will prescribe a course of medication suitable for your dog.

A thorough ear cleaning is required usually before medication is applied, which may be provided by your vet, a groomer, or done at home. Speak with your vet to determine the best course of action based on your level of comfort and your dog’s condition and temperament.

Courses of treatment may include:

• Topical parasite medications that are applied directly to the skin
• Gentle cleansing with a specially-formulated canine ear cleaner
• Anti-inflammatory medications or other prescriptions may be prescribed to clear up any  bacterial/fungal infections on the skin.

Your vet may ask to schedule a follow-up appointment to re-examine your dog and ensure that the ear mites have been eliminated. Be sure to complete the full course of treatment in the event that your dog is prescribed any medications, stopping the medicine too soon just lets the mites make a comeback!