Understand the Symptoms and Causes of Ear Mites
Before you can effectively control ear mites in your dog, it's important to understand the symptoms and causes of this common problem. Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in the ear canal and feed off the wax and oils in your dog's ears. Common symptoms of ear mites include itching, redness, and a dark, waxy discharge. Ear mites are highly contagious and can be easily spread from one dog to another, so it's important to take action as soon as you notice any signs of infestation.
- Scratching around the ear and neck area
- Dark, waxy dischage
- Redness or swelling around the ear
- Smelly ears
One of the most important steps in controlling ear mites in dogs is to regularly clean and treat your dog's ears. This helps to remove any excess wax and debris that may be providing a breeding ground for the mites. Start by gently wiping the inside of your dog's ears with a clean, damp cloth or cotton ball. Be sure to avoid using any harsh chemicals or solutions that could irritate your dog's ears. After cleaning, apply a veterinarian-recommended ear mite treatment to kill any remaining mites and prevent reinfestation. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and continue treatment for the recommended duration to ensure complete elimination of the mites. Regularly cleaning and treating your dog's ears will help to keep them healthy and free from ear mites.
Use Preventative Medications to Eliminate Ear Mites
In addition to regular cleaning, you should choose a preventative monthly chew or spot on product to treat your dog for ear mites, fleas, mange, and ticks. It is recommended to use these products continuosly as directed, most will require monthly application.
If the problem persist, prescription medications may be required to eliminate ear mites in dogs. Your veterinarian can prescribe ear drops or ointments that are specifically formulated to kill ear mites.
By combining regular cleaning with your monthly flea, tick and mite preventative chews, you can effectively control and eliminate ear mites in your dog.