Ear mites are a common external parasite in both dogs and cats. They can be seen at any age but are most often found in puppies or kittens.

Common symptoms are scratching and discharge. Unfortunately, these are the symptoms of almost all ear disease. Most dogs and cats with ear discharge and scratching have something other than mites so don’t start treatment until your veterinarian has made a definitive diagnosis. Medication in an ear can make diagnosis difficult.

Ear mites are diagnosed by finding live Otodectes mites in the car canal. Once mites are diagnosed, treatment is relatively easy. As opposed to the 10-14 day treatments of the past, we can usually cure the problem with a single treatment. Secondary yeast or bacterial infections are common and may also need to be treated. Ear mites are highly contagious and any other pets in the household should be examined or treated.