Understanding Important Things You Need To Learn About Ear Mites
Ear mites are a common infection suffered by cats and dogs. They are more popular amongst cats. The mites resemble ticks and they are parasites that feed off of the animals ear wax. When a pet has these mites, it is best to seek a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Typically, an infection will show a black, crusty discharge. This is a mixture of the pet’s blood, ear wax and the mites. Veterinarians will test the presence of mites by examining the cat or dog’s ear wax under a microscope. If they do in fact see that this is the result of an infection caused by mites in the ear, they will prescribe the proper treatment.
The mite are parasites that tend to dwell on the surface of the animal’s ear. In cases of an extreme infection, the mites may travel to the animal’s face and head. The mites will lay their eggs on their host and they will typically hatch in four days. The hatched larva feeds off of the animal’s ear wax until it turns into mite.
If not treated, the mite will live in their host for approximately two months. They will continue to feed off of the animal’s ear wax. The mites will continue to lay eggs and grow new mites. This infection is seen in both dogs and cats but is more common in cats.
This type of infection is also very contagious. Even if you think your pet may have these mites but you are not sure, it is important to keep them away from other animals. The mites are transmitted through physical contact. They can jump from one host to the other. While your pet is being treated, they will need to be keep from other animals so they do not spread the infection.
A mite infection in the ears of cats and dogs are very uncomfortable for the animal. The skin becomes very irritated and sore from the infection. If not treated, the infection can lead to other types of skin diseases. There are many types of treatments available but it is important to first consult with your pet’s veterinarian.
Ear mites can be treated by many over the counter treatments that are available in pet stores. These treatments kill the eggs that are laid by the mites. They work according to the life cycle of the mite which is around three weeks. If the infection is severe, it is better to get prescription medication from a veterinarian. The veterinarian can prescribe more powerful treatments that will get rid of the infection in less time.
Ear mites in dogs is a difficult condition that is frustrating for the animal and the owner. If you cure ear mites, your pet will thank you for it.