Ferrets & Ear Mites

Ferrets are prone to getting ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) because they can catch ear mites from several other types of pets, according to Sharon Vanderlip, DVM. Ear mites, also called ear mange, cause the ferret considerable pain, can cause balance problems and can contribute to other infections. Ear mites in ferrets are treatable, but they are highly contagious to other pets, especially cats.

  1. Causes

    • Ear mites travel from infected animal to other animals. They can be found in ferrets, rabbits, cats and dogs. But they do not live their entire lives in the ferret's ear canal. They may live in the bedding, in any furniture fabrics or even in the clothes of people. A person who handles an infected animal could accidentally transport the mites to healthy animals, according to Judith A. Bell, DVM, Ph.D.

    Signs

    • Ferrets with ear mite infestations will scratch their ears and shake their heads far more often than usual. The wax may have a rotting or sour scent. Their ear wax will change in color from tan to a dark red, dark brown or black, sometimes resembling coffee grounds. Ferrets will produce far more ear wax than usual so that it may be oozing from the ears down the side of the head. PetMD notes that this can also turn into a thick crust.

    Misconception

    • Although ear mites are common in ferrets, it should not be assumed that all ear infections producing itchiness and excessive dark wax are the cause of mites. Other causes could be other types of parasites, a foreign object lodged in the ear canal or a bacterial infection of the ear. Any ferret with ear problems should be taken to a vet for a proper diagnosis. A sample of the ear wax needs to be examined with a microscope in order to find mites or another cause of the ferret's ear problems.

    Treatment

    • Ferret ear mites are given drops or ointments made with the insecticides ivermectin, rotenone or pyrethrins. Since ear mites are so highly contagious, any other pets in the home should be treated for mites, whether they show signs or not. The ferret's bedding and any cloth toys should be laundered and any carpets or furniture vacuumed frequently. Anyone handling the ferret should wash his hands before touching another animal. If the ferret gets a secondary infection due to scratching, then she may need antibiotics.

    Expert Advice

    • Ferrets hate getting drops in their ears. They will shake their heads immediately after getting the drops, which will scatter the medication everywhere except inside of their ears. A snack may help to distract the ferret from shaking his head. After placing the drops in, close the ears and massage the outer ear gently against the skull. This only needs to be done for a few seconds to let the medication sink into the ear.