What Are the Treatments for Ear Mites?

Ear mites are microscopic insects that feed on the waxy buildup inside an animal's ears, causing intense itching and head shaking. The ears become irritated and begin to secrete fluids that combine with the wax and create a crusty, black substance. The ear canal becomes blocked, airflow is reduced and your pet can develop secondary bacterial and fungal infections.

  1. Miticide

    • Over-the-counter miticide treatments can be used to eliminate mites. Read and follow directions carefully as miticides contain insecticides.

    Olive Oil and Vitamin E

    • Vitamin E mixed with almond or olive oil can be used to clean ears. The oils soften waxy buildup, smother mites and make debris removal easier.

    Herbal Treatments

    • Yellow dock, thyme, rosemary or rue can be ground and mixed with olive oil. Strained and applied to the ears, this mixture will kill existing mites.

    Persistent Treatment

    • Mites can be very persistent, particularly in cats. It can takesix weeks of treatment to rid your pet of ear mites.

    Flea Medications

    • Some topical flea medications also treat mite infections in dogs and cats. Never use a dog formulation on your cat.

    Routine Ear Cleaning

    • Keep your pet's ears clean. Wipe ears out monthly with an over-the-counter ear wash solution or a few drops of olive oil. For irritated ears, add two drops of calendula tincture to the olive oil.