Post by DogGoneGood on Jan 26, 2008 2:17:50 GMT -5
EAR MITES
Ear mites are a common cause of ear problems in both cats and dogs. Ear mites are tiny insects that spend most of their life inside the ear canal. They are very contagious for cats and dogs, but luckily not for man.
The typical symptoms in cats are continued shaking and scratching the ears sometimes resulting in large open sores at the base of the ear. The ear fills up with a dark black dry discharge that looks like coffee grounds. The mite itself is so tiny taht it is extremely difficult to see without the aid of a magnifying glass or microscope.
In dogs the symptoms of shaking and scratching the ears are the same, but the typical dry black discharage seen in cats is usually absent. Dogs commonly get sore ears due to other causes such as bacterial infection or the prsence of foreign objects. Small grass seeds or twigs can easily work their way into the ear canal. It is important that the ear be properly examined before starting mite treatment.
Treatment consists of applying a special insecticide oil into the ear every three days for four treatments. Other drops to soothe the irritated ear or to control infection may aslo be necessary.
Because ear mites are so contagious, al other dogs and cats in the household should be treated at the same time.
Shuswap Veterinary Clinic Ltd.
Dr. Gary Cruikshank - Dr. John Sudbury
Dr. Dave Sedgman
Dr. Len Lazzarotto
Dr. James Clark
Salmon Arm, B.C., Canada
