Ear Mites
Natural Remedies

Ear Mite Remedies

Hand Sanitizer

7 User Reviews
5 star (6) 
  86%
1 star (1) 
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Posted by Cherri (NEWARK, NJ) on 04/13/2007
★★★★★

A lady here stated that she used hand sanitiser to get rid of ear mites in her cats' ears. She said it took "a few applications". My question is: how many applications did it take, and how long did you use this treatment? Any response would be greatly appreciated. Thanx!


Hand Sanitizer
Posted by Lisa (Winfield, PA) on 04/01/2007
★★★★★

hand sanitizer works great for ear mites in my cats it also kills them. just put a dab on your finger and rub it into the ear. only takes a few applications and they are gone

Replied by JaJa
(Zebulon, NC)
09/03/2008
★★★★★

I am happy that hand sanitizer was suggested for the cure of ear mites. It was something I already had in the house and I didn't have to go out to buy anything. My two year old peekapoo was scratching his ear like crazy and I truly did not know what the problem was. A family member suggested that he may have ear mites. I went online looking for home remedies to cure ear mites so that i could save on a costly vet bill. I came across several remedies, however the sanitizer was at hand and I decided to use it. I used a bottle with a hand pump and used two sqirts in each ear and massaged it in. Within an hour he scratched once and by the end of the night he wasn't scratching at all. Thanks for the useful information. You guys saved me a trip to the vet. jaja

Replied by Kenny
(El Paso, TX)
11/25/2008

I HAVE A FEMALE PIT BULL AND SHE IS SUFFERING FROM WHAT i THINK TO EAR MITES i THINK THAT i WILL TRY HAND SANTIZER ON HER BECAUSE IT WORKED ON ME WITH POSION IVY AND OTHER PEOPLE S YUKY HANDS

Replied by Heidi
(Pa, US)
09/17/2014

Does hand sanitizer work for a dog's ear mites?

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
09/17/2014

Hey Heidi!

I have googled the use of hand sanitizer to cure ear mites and some folks say it does the trick. I can only say this: use with caution as it will sting like the Dickens if there is raw, open sores on the skin!

Please consider using one of the many olive oil remedies suggested on EC's ear mite page:

https://www.earthclinic.com/pets/ear_mites.html

Replied by Tracey
(Fayetteville Nc)
06/14/2015

My daughter just got her first puppy and we don't know much about it. He was recently trimmed at Petsmart and was advised that I purchase Earmite medicine. I would rather do home remedy after reading that hand sanitizer works better on cats. My question is will it work for our Shih tzu? Can I use it as a preventive to keep them from our baby ears?

Replied by Sam
(San Jose, Ca)
08/04/2015

Thank you for posting. My dog apparently has mites (from motel room) and I do too. Noticed itching 5 days ago from my dog.. Then a couple days ago my ears and eyelashes are really itchy. Haven't tried yet.

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
08/05/2015

Hey Sam!

It is quite possible to contract scabies mites from hotel bedding - Ted's Mange Remedy applies here for both you and your dog. Do also wash both dog and human bedding and clothing daily to avoid re-contamination.

Replied by Vickie
(Parkersburg)
10/31/2015

I worry with hand sanitizer for ear mites because it has alcohol and won't that be extremely irritating and painful if the skin inside ear is broken or raw?

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
11/01/2015

Vickie - your instincts are spot on; alcohol on raw broken skin will sting! A less painful treatment would be garlic infused olive oil or neem oil until the skin is healed and then alcohol remedies could be used.

Replied by Czgator
(Florida)
05/10/2016

If you have itching with what looks like red streak that travels across the skin it could be larva migrans also. It's caused by hookworms that get under the skin and are trying to get into internal organs. You can take horse or cattle wormer paste orally (same dosage as large animals, just scale down for weight) and it will kill it. Buy online or at feed/pet store. Safeguard brand is good, inexpensive and safe for you, cats or dogs. It doesn't taste bad and has the same ingredients the MD would give you. If it comes back take it again. Actually, one tube will last you a long time, and you can use it to worm your animals a few times a year, which is always a good idea anyway. (Just don't give anything with ivermectin, or anything with "ectin" in name to cats or Collies.) If you are just itching all over, it could be bedbugs.

Replied by Lucas
(Massachusetts)
07/29/2016

Hey,m ear mites is a zoonotic disease which means it can't be transferred from animal to human, so you might just be so sympathetic you're imaging your symptoms or maybe you have an ear infection. Either way I hope you feel better soon and I hope it's a load off that you know it can't be ear mites anymore.

Just One Seabird
(East Coast USA)
07/20/2023

I know this is an old post, but it needs a response for the sake of people reading nowadays.

Zoonotic diseases are the ones that CAN be transmitted to humans, the term means "of animal origin". It's also used for diseases we can give to animals. COVID is zoonotic, we can give it to our pets.

Scabies can infest both pets and people. The mite is Sarcoptes scabei. There are variants within the species that prefer different hosts, so you have Sarcoptes scabei var. hominis in people, Sarcoptes scabei var. suis which infests pigs and is used to test human remedies for scabies, and others.

There are also other species of Sarcoptes mites. They're nasty things.

In general, it's unhelpful to tell someone with a skin condition that they are imagining it. Please google "A Filamentous Borrelial Dermatitis" using Google Scholar.

Many people suffering from Morgellons, who were told this was not a real disease and they were imagining things, actually had a Borreliosis that was not Lyme disease but was caused by a related organism. The infection caused skin sores AND interfered with normal skin collagen production so that those sores contained fibers.

So all those people had a real disease. But they were told they were imagining it, some of them were even accused of causing their own wounds, and they were given tranquilizers when they needed antibiotics. And their doctors often refused to look at any fiber samples they tried to bring to the doctor's attention.

Please do not tell people they are imagining things. Please take them seriously. All of those people had wrong diagnoses on their medical records and were labeled as needing psychiatric medications. There was nothing at all wrong with them except that they were infected with a previously unidentified species of Borrelia, and their doctors wouldn't pay proper attention to them.

NB
(IA)
03/03/2024

Thank you. And re Drs not listening, very few do, these days. Or get in trouble if they stray too far.


Homeopathic Remedies

Posted by Donna R (Sarasota, Fl) on 10/22/2009

Pet Ear Mite Infestation

I have a question. You reccomend yellow dock tincture and water to kill ear mite which is applied directly into the ear. The latin name for yellow dock is rumex crispus which comes in a homeopathic pellet remedy made by Boiron. If the homeopathic remedy of yellow dock (rumex crispus) is taken orally via homeopathic pellet, will this kill ear mites as well?


Honey

Posted by Sam (Texas) on 03/02/2017

Home remedies like organic honey work the best in treating ear mites in cats.


How to Restrain Cats for Treatment

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
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Posted by Mary Carter (Larnaca, Cyprus ) on 03/10/2012
★★★★★

Restraining cats for ear treatments:

Cut the corner off of an old pillow case so it is just the size of the cat's neck. (Reinforce the neck with some quick stitches so the cat can't rip the pillowcase open if he gets a paw out. )

Make a drawstring for the bottom of the pillow case that can be drawn closed quickly.

Sneak up on the cat when he is sleeping.

Despite my monster cat hating this procedure (I'm 70 years old) he seems to understand that I am trying to help him doesn't seem to hold any grudge.


Hydrogen Peroxide

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1 star (1) 
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Posted by June (KC, KS) on 01/12/2008
★★★★☆

I also use H2O2 for one of my cats who has been plagued with earmites since I found him abandoned as a kitten. I've never been able to completely rid him of the problem, probably because I have not been diligent enough, but the H2O2 definitely helps. As you know, it dissolves ear wax and earmites thrive in those waxy conditions.

Replied by Lori
(Beacon Falls, CT)
08/10/2008
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) for Ear Mites: Just a warning for cat and dog lovers out there treating their pets with hydrogen peroxide in the ears:

H2O2 in an animal's (or human's, for that matter) eyes can blind them permanently. My vet told me that, and I also learned that in nursing school, but I'm not certain about the mechanism of action. I would personally try other remedies first, unless you have a very quiet and cooperative kitty.

Just wanted to warn ya!

Replied by Margaret
(Upper Darby, PA)
08/24/2008
★★★★★

I am being a foster mommy to an abandoned kitten with ear mites. I use hydrogen peroxide for cleaning only. It should not be thought of as a remedy. To avoid getting it into the cats' eyes, dab a clean q tip into the bottle, shake some off the q tip, then wipe only the parts of the ear that you can see. It is best to only wipe in an upwards direction to avoid debris from falling into the ear canal, and hold the cat on its side, so that anything falling will fall out. Next take kitty to the vet for some ear mite drops, and follow the directions EXPLICITLY! Otherwise, you will see how the mites will keep coming back.

Replied by Andre
(New York City, NY)
02/01/2009
★★★★★

Of course if you pour H2O2 - or acid vinegar, or any of many standard vet medicines in your pet'eyes when they are supposed to go into their ears - it *WILL* blind them !!!!

As I mentioned a couple years ago I used the Ted's Mange cure (slighlty modified) with success on my cat - and so far, there has been only one small resurgence last year, immediately snuffed.

For reference, again this is what I posted

09/29/2007: Andre from New York, USA writes: "I tried the oil based treatments, actually using coconut oil since I heard it has antiseptic properties, and hydrogen peroxide. This only slowed down the ear mites. After a couple of weeks of this, I started with a mix of Borax (20 Mule Team), hydrogen peroxide, vinegar and a little Dr Bronner soap. After just two days the mites are disappearing. To prevent my cat from lcking off his wet fur, that I allow to dry naturally as indicated, I got him a collar. See his picture on Fickr, tag: ear.mite.cure.for.cats, or go directly to the page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/nycandre/1459080973/

Thanks a lot, Ted and everyone else here! nycandre

Replied by Sarah
(Raleigh Nc)
08/17/2017

My dogs have mites on back of ears..the inside is clean I used a ear mite liquid from Wal-Mart..the back of ears are crusted n they r irritated.nothing is working . what can I do...also I have scabies. Help us plz

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
08/21/2017

Hey Sarah,

Your dog may have fleas, that or you both have sarcopic mange. Ted's Mange Remedy can help with the sarcoptic mange, and you might consider a lamp flea trap to see if your house is harboring fleas as well.

Replied by Annie
(Philippines)
09/18/2017

CY Gabriel soap is very effective for most skin problems including scabies. We also treat the affected area with warm coconut oil. Dip a piece of cotton in the oil and swab on the affected are start from the outside boarders. We make our own coconut oil so I'm not sure if supermarket bought vco's will work the same.


Hydrogen Peroxide, Rubbing Alcohol

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Thatonechick (Orleans, Indiana) on 01/26/2010
★★★★★

For ear mites, we were told by the vet to use half hydrogen peroxide and half rubbing alcohol, it will get rid of the mites as well as the smell in the ears.


Ivomec

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by S.F.Hyde (Deridder, La.) on 07/01/2018
★★★★★

IVOMEC is awesome stuff! For EARMITES, two to four drops in the ear canal, gently massaged in for good coverage. Wait a week, gently clean the ear. Any brown stuff should be considered ear mite waste and may be full of viable eggs, so be prepared. Have a folded paper towel or a zip lock waiting to catch the used Q-tips or whatever. After cleaning, reapply IVOMEC same as before. Wait a week & clean. Was there any brown stuff in the ear canal? Yes? Treat again. No? Your probly clear, but should treat one more time to be confident any hatchlings get killed. Check ear canals weekly for six weeks for any signs of the "Tell Tale" brown waste. Always check your pets ears at least monthly, even if they are not acting distressed. Why make them suffer when we can prevent it?


Medications

15 User Reviews
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1 star (4) 
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(2) 
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Posted by K (Mason, WV) on 05/29/2009
★☆☆☆☆

I would just like to say that I have a cat and have taken him to the vet several times for ear mites which cost me $65.00 per visit. I have also bought my medidcation from the vet at $12.00 a bottle and have given it to my cat faithfully. My cat still has the ear mites after over a year and suffers terribly from this he has no skin on the backs of his ears where he has dug them so much so at this point I am willing to try anything to get my cat some relief. Hopefully this will work.

Replied by Eva Diaz
(Albuquerque)
02/21/2017
★★★★★

I have a cat refuge... the ear mites are constant. I do not believe in Vets or M.Ds.. they kill too many things... I am a naturopath... and it works. My main medicines are apple cider vinegar (rubbed on the body it stops congestion.. around the neck and in the ears and on the ruff... dilute to 1/2 with distilled water). You can also put some on their paws or drops on gums and into ears. IT IS A MUST FOR MOST THINGS. I also used Aloe Vera in their ears to help heal.

PRIMARILY, I USE 500 PPM COLLOIDAL SILVER... (a teaspoon in their gallon water. I clean with Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) and vinegar.

NEVER USE CHLORINE!

READ AND RESEARCH WHAT ALL THESE THINGS DO! Make an ear wash with a dropper of colloidal silver in chamomile and green teas (1 glass) and use it to wash their ears out. Then you can use the ACV to kill mites... just make sure that infection is killed with CS and that the ears are not inflamed. Use Aloe Vera to put in ears to heal and sooth. I work everyday with one cat or five.

The other thing I use is sulpher in oil to kill mites. Mix an organic cat vitamin and mineral supplement in foods (powder). MAKE SURE THEY GET PURE NON-POLLUTED WATER OFTEN FOR OXYGEN AND HEALTH. THE Apple Cider Vinegar and CS will not harm it. Watch your animals. Get a book on using herbs etc., on yourself and animals.

Live with the EARTH and the Sun and Moon. I am Native American.

Replied by Hope
(New London)
07/31/2017

omg. I have to learn this but I'm not sure 🤔 how. It is sooo much to take in at once like instructions to something u cant understand.... like in what order do I do this and what brands do I buy and where and mix what first and what do I do first.

My cat is like a child adopted in my home

Replied by Suseeq
(Sydney Australia)
08/03/2017

Ear mites - a couple of drops olive oil in ears work down with fingers the oil smothers the mites


Medications
Posted by Donna (Savannah, GA USA) on 11/08/2008

My kitten has ear mites (I think) and I put Ear Miticide in his ear last night. It didn't seem to do anything but irritate his ears worse to where he shook his head and scratched at his ears more than before. Today I rinsed his ears with two drops of vinegar/water mixed 50/50. I then put two more drops of Ear Miticde in each ear. He is sleeping all of the time and when he does get up he wobbles. I am really worried about him. Can someone PLEASE tell me if this is normal?

EC: This website says to call your vet or local Animal Poison Control if you experience side effects from this product: http://www.drugs.com/vet/ear-miticide.html

Replied by Doris
(Orland, Ca)
11/09/2008

I have used a 50 50 solution of Hydrogen Proxide and Rubbing alcohol I rub it really good and then clean it out with a cotton swab it works well and our big dobberman just loves it...

Gulfport Gyrl
(SC)
01/24/2022

When using Hydrogen peroxide do you get the Food grade kind and dilute to 3% or do you use the kind from the store?

Replied by Marilyn
(Shelton, Washington, USA)
11/09/2008

Donna,

Balance is a function of the inner ear back of the ear drum. Your cat is suffering greatly and may even begin spinning in circles or begin to go crazy. As a child I suffered multiple ruptures of both ear drums. The doctor had us pour hydrogen peroxide into my ear and hold it there with my head tipped till it quit fizzing. I seriously doubt any mite can survive multiple doses of hydrogen peroxide plus a lot of them will come out when the peroxide drains out. The H2O2 will not hurt the cat's ears though you might dilute it by half. The cat will not like the crackling noise in its ears from the H2O2 foaming but if the ears feel better after, it will soon put up with the procedure. Do it with dropper or even a spoon held well away from the ear so no chance of the cat wincing and getting its ear stabbed. I have used this on a cat with a vets direction to do so. Perhaps once a day is enough. Be sure the solution is strong enough to foam.

Replied by Janis
(Renton, US)
11/10/2008

I always used mineral oil for any animal that I have had for ear mites. Just use an eye dropper and put about 5 or 6 small drops in each ear. Check the ears each day. As long as you keep seeing the blackish or dark color,looking like the ears are dirty then keep doing it until that goes away. The mineral oil will suffocate the ear mites.This has always worked for me. Good luck. Hope the cat gets better soon.

Replied by Jacqueline G.
(Canada)
09/18/2016

The wobbles are suggestive of inner ear damage affecting his balance. Please seek professional medical attention as soon as possible.

Replied by Janet
(Vt)
01/30/2017

My dog mixed breed, has ear mites badly, I sprayed mixture peroxide, acv, water in his ear, that was very red, very sore. I don't know how many times a day would do?

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
01/31/2017

Hello Janet,

ACV is great for the ears, but will sting ears that are sore from being scratched. Consider using garlic infused olive oil, or other remedies for ear mites first: https://www.earthclinic.com/pets/ear_mites.html.

Replied by Renee
(Mississippi)
03/18/2017

My vet helps with cheap remedy for rescues he recommends 50/50 vinegar and rubbing alcohol he recommends a hair color bottle with tip. he says squeeze generous amount in each ear and rub it around till it squishes loudly then let them go so they can sling their heads and sling all the junk out of their ears. do it several days in a row

It really works and very cheap.

Don't recommend doing it inside your house.


Medications
Posted by Linda (New Caney, TX) on 07/11/2008
★★★★★

To treat ear mites in dogs I have very successfully used injectable Ivomec. Using a 1cc syringe, without a needle, you administer .25 for each ear. Ivomec can be found at feed stores, such as Tractor Supply. A bottle might cost $30 but last a real long time and can be shared with friends. Ivomec can also be used to prevent heartworms. I do have a chart if anyone wants it.

Replied by Dar
(Montgomery, Texas)
07/18/2008

Wow, does it only take one treament? Also would love to have the chart for the heart worms. Thank You

Replied by Lisa
(Theodore, Alabama)
08/28/2008

While I have used Ivomec in the past to (succesfully) prevent heartworms in larger dogs, I have never attempted the ear mite remedy here described. Also, at this time I am the owner of a guinea pig sized "dog" whose tiny weight makes me apprehensive to attempt the application of Ivomec to protect his tiny self from heartworms. A chart would be GREATLY appreciated!

Replied by Linda
(South Bend, IN)
10/28/2008

I would like the Ivomec chart that Linda (BertsBabe2008) talked about Thanks so much.

Replied by Katherine
(Dallas, GA)
02/04/2009

i would love to have the chart. i tried almost everything on my dog but is taking a long time. i clean his ears with mineral oil and yes it leaves the ears so clean.

Replied by Joanna Wessel
(Grand Haven, MI, USA)
02/21/2009

i would love the chart also. can you use the paste and if so can you mix it with water or somthing else?
joanna

Replied by Carol
(Castle Rock, Washington)
03/21/2010

this is in response to Yea of 07-11-2008

They suggested Ivomec for ear mites.1/2cc per ear. I got a generic brand of the same thing at the feed store for $37.00. The brand name is almost 50.00. It did in fact all 4 of my dogs ear mites that did in fact spread really quickly. After using the Ivomec the next day I put 2 drops of mineral oil in each ear because mites deposit droppings that can cause other infections. The mineral oil helps to clean out the ear canal an keep it clean it also soothes the red ears that the mites caused in the first place.

Replied by Astralclean
(Atlanta, Ga)
03/27/2010

Earmites-Just pop open a capsul of 1000mg Garlic and squeeze the oil onto a q-tip or if it is really bad just squirt a little bit into the ear everyday. The amount doesn't matter-garlic will not hurt the ear.

Replied by Sarah
(Harriman, Tn)
03/17/2015

I'd love that chart if you still have it.

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
03/17/2015

Years ago I used to mix up 1% injectable Ivomec for Cattle - the kind sold in the farm supply stores or bought online -for heart worm prevention in my pack. One bottle diluted out can treat many animals and might be a good route for a rescue to go as they may get the volume of animals needed to use one bottle up.

First a warning:

***DO NOT TREAT YOUR DOG WITH THIS MEDICATION UNLESS YOU HAVE A CLEAR HEART WORM TEST. YOU CAN KILL YOUR PET IF IT IS INFECTED WITH HEART WORMS AND YOU USE THIS MEDICATION***

This is no joke; if your dog has a heart worm infection and you treat it with the above medication you can cause all the heart worms to die at the same time, and they will clog your dog's lungs and your pet can die. Always get the heart worm test before undertaking any sort of heart worm treatment or prevention plan.

This is how you mix it up for dogs for heart worm prevention:

The proven dose for 50-100lb dog is 0.272cc - this is the amount of Ivermectin in Heartgard. So if you have a 50-80lb dog, you will give 1/4cc (0.25ml) of 1 % Ivomec for cattle ... monthly. Giving 0.1cc per 10 lbs of body weight is too much. It may not do anything bad, but why use more than you need? …Susan Lloyd, DVM

Source: http://www.sqdog.com/Dog_Health/Ivomec.html

Note the reference to .1cc/10 lbs of body weight; this dosage is all over the internet and is a very common dosage to treat demodectic mange, but this veterinarian explains why this dose is too much for heart worm prevention.

For ear mites in dogs:

"It's very important to verify with your vet that your dog has an ear mite infection before using this treatment. Ear mites are relatively uncommon in dogs (they're much more common in cats). Infections caused by bacteria and yeast are far more likely causes of itching and pain. It would be dangerous to treat for mites if the eardrum were ruptured, which is common with infections.

It's also important to treat all animals in the household at the same time, as otherwise the mites are likely to continue to be passed from one to another.

Directions for using 1% ivermectin solution:

Add 1 cc ivermection 1% solution to a 2 fluid ounce (60 ml) bottle, then fill the bottle with mineral oil.
Shake well before using to mix the ivermectin evenly. Apply 0.3 cc/ml of the mixture to each ear and massage in. Repeat in two weeks if needed.

Note there are about 30 ml in 1 fluid ounce, and 10, 000 mcg ivermectin in 1 cc of 1% solution, so you end up with 60 ml containing 10, 000 mcg ivermectin, or 167 mcg per ml. Giving 0.3 cc of this solution provides 50 mcg ivermectin, the same dosage as Acarexx. This will be enough to treat 100 dogs (200 ears). "

Source: dogaware.com/files/ivermectinmites.doc

An additional source on mixing up Ivomec for pets: http://forums2.gardenweb.com/discussions/1439362/ivermectin-for-doggies

Replied by Chris
(Texass)
10/01/2016

Ivermectin is a dangerous drug for certain breeds, certain animals, and it is easy to overdose. Some things are not worth the risk. It is better not to use it. Revolution from your vet is good for ear mites and so is advantage multi. I however believe those two drugs can cause heart failure due to the possible raise in blood pressure. It is especially dangerous for elderly cats (7 yrs, and up) and overweight cats. Cleaning your cats ears and mineral oil should do the trick. Ear mites can make you itch and you will think you have scabies. They do not infest a human but they certainly crawl on them and attempt to bite. Hydrogen Peroxide is supposed to be very bad for the ears especially if it gets past the ear drum. This is something I read, but I myself as a teenager used it in their ears often and saw no issues but cleaner ears. All of the drugs I mention and my opinions of them are based on years of personal experience with the drugs.


Medications
Posted by Merit (Phoenix, Arizona) on 05/15/2008
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

I used too much lanolin-based ear miticide (Zema) in my cat's ear. He continues to shake, now 12 hours after treatment. I know I have used rubbing alcohol to get water out of my ears. Can I use that on him to try to draw out the extra Miticide in the inner ear?

Replied by Deborah
(Macclesfield, UK)
10/01/2014

Warning! Ivermectin can cause death in collies with deletion mutation in the MDR1 gene, you can test your collie to see if he has this mutation but to be on the safe side, avoid it.

Here's some information from Vetmed:

The phenomenon of ivermectin toxicity in Collies was first described in 1983. Ivermectin causes neurologic toxicity in some, but not all Collies, at doses that are 1/200th of the dose required to cause toxicity in other dogs. Neurologic manifestations of ivermectin in susceptible dogs include, hypersalivation, ataxia, blindness, coma, respiratory compromise, and death.


Medications
Posted by Samantha (Sarasota, FL) on 04/19/2008
★★★★★

Well yesterday my cats ear swelled up. She had been lying around for about 2-3 days. Kind of depressed. For a small time before that every so often she would scratch her ears. Im in my early 20's and this is my first cat. Though its like she had always been there. Anyway, so yesterday her left ear swelled up . I called a emergency vet because it happened to be later on the weekend. But I really couldn't afford a emergency vet visit. So I went to the store and I bought Hartz Guard w/ Aloe. But first I put a small amount of Hydrogen Peroxide in a dropper to clean out the ear wax (which the mites feed off of.) So I put the peroxide in her ears and massaged it and then used a cotton ball. The cotton ball thing is alot more difficult then it sounds!! After administering that I gave her some time because if anybody has ever had peroxide in their ears you know it starts crackling as it eats the ear wax. Then I put one drop of the Hartz on the outer part and 5 drops on the inner, because she is a runt and under 15 pounds. It tells you on the back how much based on their weight. But it is a pesticide so I advise against putting too much in the ear. Well that was last night so we went to bed and this morning she's not 100% but she's up running around holding her head up. She seems happy again. Now I know what I need to do and how frequently. Please don't be as ignorant as I was to let it get that bad. We all love our kitties or we wouldn't be here. I got the idea for the peroxide off of this site. Because it was so late I had to go to Wal-Mart and all they had was the Hartz and no cleaning solution I needed something so thanks!

Replied by h8erboy
(Jerome, ID)
05/26/2008

Funny how some people are seeking products with pyrethrin because "it's natural and comes from chrysanthemums" and others here are wanting to avoid Hartz Mites Drops because "it's pesticide." Newsflash folks, the active ingredient in Hartz drops is pyrethrins, same as the natural cures you're paying so much for. And yes pyrethrins do come from chrysanthemum flowers.

Replied by Ebeth
(Abernathy, Usa)
06/30/2011

Our cat had been diagnosed with Ear mites so we started treating him Pyrethrins as Vet prescribed. So the next morning I squirted some Pyrethrins on both ears he didnt liked it at all, as the Vet directions just " squirt it into his ears". He got soo sick since then, didnt want to eat, he wobbles and vomiting, when I let him outside the wind blows and he just fell into the ground. So I stopped the medication immediately and decided to let him get well first before I would do anything. After 3 days he is well and eating and not wobbling anymore, I just feed him as long as he wanted to eat so he can have his strenght back.

Anyway, I didn't use that Pyrethrins again, I know there is someone here in the board saying that Pyrethins is from crysanthemums and it is not a chemical , I know that too cos I read the ingredients after my cat got sick. Not all Natural remedy are good for every cat, or chemical/pesticide in that matter. Just like us people some medicine may work for you but not to everyone.

I started using coconut oil after I read a lot of remedies here, Im using VCO and he likes it when I massage his ears, but after 5 days I decided to switch to hand sanitizers cos seems like I didn't really see a big difference using coconut oil (i know it will take time) but I want him to feel better sooner. So far I see some improvements, he is more happy and alert and playful and dont shake his head often but probably a couple of time in a day. So I will continue to use Hand sanitizer and see what happens its been 3 days since I started using it.

Thank you so much for this very helpful message board.

Replied by Know
(USA)
02/05/2014

You have to understand that mites are not visible. Dirt in the ear doesn't mean that you see a mites. Dirty ears create itching too. Whenever what you do helps to clean the ear some kind of way. But for mites any oil will drown them if they are on the skin under the skin in site of the ear that where they're hiding. Wet ear from the oil will prevent them from moving around

Replied by Shari
(Texas)
11/20/2015

Hartz puts out some of the "Worst" meds on the market. I don't know how they stay in business!


Medications
Posted by Tim (Winters, California) on 04/16/2008
★★★★★

While trying to find out more about tea-tree oil's medicinal applications, I came upon the threads on Earth Clinic about ear infections in pet animals. I was disturbed and alarmed by the degree of inaccurate and incorrect information I encountered. Particularly of concern were the readers' comments soliciting unapproved and off-label uses of unknown parasite control products, especially in exotics.

A basic issue is the prevalence of ear mites. While very common in cats, it is virtually nonexistent in dogs under most circumstances. The people posting comments about the pros and cons of various treatment protocols for ear mites in dogs are most likely not even dealing with mites. And treating ear mites in cats these days is extremely simple and not worthy of prolonged discussion; a one-time (two at most) application of feline Revolution or Advantage Multi for cats should eliminate the pests. While a good product for flea control, Frontline is probably completely ineffective against mites.

I would recommend that this site be refereed by a competent veterinarian who embraces integrated (Eastern and Western) responsible practice.

Respectfully,

Tim Krasnansky DVM

Berryessa Veterinary Services
Winters, CA 95694
(530) 795-6090
BerryessaVet.com

Replied by Stella
(USA)
04/19/2008
★☆☆☆☆

re: Feline Mite Remedies. My feline had a scary seizure type reaction from a single dose of Revolution. I will never use it again. It is not worth losing my friend over, especially when there are safer methods for prevention and eradication.

Replied by M. R.
(Odessa, Missouri)
05/01/2008

I appreciate the vet comments on 4/16. There are several items available like Revolution. Milbe-mite is one. I have one indoor/outdoor cat and 8 barn cats. Revolution, Advantage, and Milbe-mite range in price from $20+. I cannot afford these things. So I welcome affordable alternatives. Does any one have info about what to do about a kitten while treating the other cats?

Replied by Sophie
(Friday Harbor, Wa)
11/20/2009

Call me ignorant, but Revolution doesn't always work and it's extremely expensive (speaking from experience). Also, why would I poison my kittie's entire body just to kill ear mites? Much too dangerous....

Replied by Thomas
(Sarasota, Fl)
03/30/2010

I wrapped my kitty in a blanket like a taco and after the first cleaning she trusted me from then on, but before I thought of that she would hiss and scratch and bite so just take your time and wrap her up in a blankie

Replied by Lisa
(Warrens, Wi)
05/16/2010

CAUTION: Cats and tea tree oil. I used to use tea tree oil in my cats ears faithfully until I talked with a herbalist (might be the wrong title) who works with essential oils. She told me that cat's bodies don't tolerate tea tree oil well. I'm suspecting my use of tea tree oil in one of my cats possibly caused him neurological or slight brain damage. He was the only one I had a problem with. I never confirmed this so this is ONLY my unprofessional gut feeling based on my conversion with the herbalist. To this day I do not use tea tree oil on my cats anymore. Love it for myself and my horses tho.

Replied by Cat
(Memphis, Tn Usa)
09/15/2010

Since you are a vet, I would not expect you to have any other opinion. Being someone who has lost a few pets to a vet's incompetence, I am always looking for alternatives to the exorbitant and overkill methods presented by the veterinary profession.

Replied by Ken
(Malinalco, Mexico Mexico)
06/29/2011

I was alarmed and confounded to find that my 2 cats were infected with ear mites as I had faithfully been applying on each (on the nape of the neck as instructed), a dose of Revolution on a monthly basis for 2 years. What gives?

Replied by Valerie
(Indianapolis, Indiana, Usa)
08/25/2011

Hi Ted,

First off, Revolution offers a money-back satisfaction guarantee if purchased from a veterinarian. Download the form from their website. Fill it out and send in with necessary information. They will require a phone call from your vet, with a Case Number your vet needs to assign to your case, and probably the medical records indicating that your cats are on Revolution, and yet still got ear mites.

(Their own website states that if the product is used over a long period of time, the fleas, mites, etc. can become resistant to it, and it won't work anymore.)

Make sure to read the fine print at the bottom of the form. You should be able to get your money back. Here is the manufacturer of Revolution (Pfizer's) website address to get the form: https://animalhealth.pfizer.com/sites/pahweb/US/EN/contact/product_information/Pages/VMIPS.aspx

The above page is in a .pdf format, and most all computers can open a. Pdf form. On this page, just click on (EXPAND) next to where it says "Revolution Satisfaction Forms". Then click on "download form". Once downloaded, just click on it to open the form, print it out on your printer, fill it out, and take it to your vet.

What really gets me is, on this same page, where it says "How to report a product issue", if you click on that, it says " To report an adverse event such as your pet's reaction to a medication, the product not working as expected, or a quality issue such as leaking or damaged product, contact your Veterinarian. " What the heck???????

If the product causes an adverse reaction, or does not work as expected, YOU SHOULD BE CONTACTING THEM!! , not your VET! They should be taking responsibility for their own product, not pawning it off on your vet! Yet another reason NOT to use these products!

Revolution (and all other animal flea, tick, & parasite control products) is EXTREMELY TOXIC to pets and humans. Read the label!! The fact that it even HAS a MSDS (material safety data sheet) for humans should tell you all you need to know. If it is not safe for human skin, it is not safe for animal skin!

There are many, many all natural treatments for fleas, ticks, ear mites, and such, that work just as well, if not better, and will not harm you, your pet, or the environment.

My dog and cat currently have ear mites. I am treating them myself using natural cures, and herbal cures. Google "natural and herbal cures for ear mites" and see what you find. There are differing opinions on almost every treatment, so you need to decide which one will work best for you.

But firstly, you need to clean out the gunk (greasy, dark, and/or smelly earwax and such). You should do this on a regular basis anyway. It is easy and inexpensive. All you do is use either olive oil, or Almond Oil (available at most natural health food stores), and a bottle of 400 IU Vitamin E softgels. You mix 1/2 ounce (1 Tbsp. ) of either oil with one Vitamin E softgel capsule (prick with a pin and squeeze the oil out). You will need a dark colored small glass bottle with a dropper screw top (also available at any health food store), and a tiny funnel that will fit into the top of the bottle (both inexpensive). I quadrupled the amounts so I could use it later. Then once mixed, whenever you are ready to use it, sit the bottle in a bowl of hot water (don't cover the top part), to warm to body temperature - just a few minutes should be enough. Test a drop on your arm to make sure it is not too hot. Have someone else holding onto your pet, and lift up your pet's ear, and place 1/2 dropperful into ear canal (make sure not to go too far down with dropper so you don't damage the ear canal). Immediately (without letting your pet shake the oil out first) begin massaging the outside of your pet's ear canal to make sure the oil gets down inside, for about a minute or so. Then let your pet shake it's head, while still having someone hold onto your pet. Then, just use a soft cotton pad or cotton ball, and wipe out the entrance of the ear canal, to get the wax out.

It sounds more hard than it is. I have done it by myself without someone else to hold the pet. It is trickier with a cat, as most will not sit still to let you do this. I just covered my cat's body with a bath towel, on top of my bed, and used my own body to pin her down (without hurting her). Leaving my hands and arms free to administer the drops and massage them in, then clean them out with the cotton.

This oil also suffocates the mites, while soothing any swollen or inflamed tissues in the pet's ears. You need to do this once a day, every other day for 6 days (a total of three treatments). Then you let them rest for three days.

The second half of the treatment is necessary due to the fact that mites eggs can hatch out every 4-6 days, and you need to make sure you kill them also. There are several methods for this also. Diatomaceous Earth (must be Food Grade! ) can be purchased at specialty pet food stores, and it it CHEAP.

Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth

  • Do not use pool-filter-grade diatomaceous earth near your pets. However, the food-grade product will not harm them. Just put a pinch of the powder into the ears daily for a month to kill existing and newly hatched mites. or you can mix it with warm water, and use a dropper to administer.
Yellow Dock Root Extract

Make by mixing a tablespoon of olive or almond oil with nine drops of Yellow Dock Root extract. Use one half of an eyedropper of this in each ear, every three days for six weeks will kill ear mites.


Yellow Dock Root Extract (or Essential Oil) is available in most health food stores.

The label for Revolution also states: REVOLUTION may be irritating to skin and eyes. Reactions such as hives, itching and skin redness have been reported in humans. Wash hands after use and wash off any product in contact with the skin immediately with soap and water. If contact with eyes occurs, flush eyes copiously with water. In case of ingestion by a human, contact a physician immediately.

(What if your cat licks any of this stuff off of its skin while grooming? Cats lick their paws, and their fur, while grooming themselves, including the fur on the back of their necks...... Then it is ingested by the cat, and will kill them, without immediate (and expensive) veterinary intervention. Even then, they still may die. It is highly poisonous, even says so on the label.)

Label also states: Flammable - Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames or other sources of ignition. AND.......

Following treatment with REVOLUTION, transient localized ALOPECIA (hair loss) with or without inflammation at or near the site of application was observed. Other signs observed included vomiting, loose stool or diarrhea with or without blood, anorexia, lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, and muscle tremors. There have been reports of PRURITIS (chronic itching), URTICARIA (hives, or itchy, red welts on the surface of the skin), ERYTHEMA (which has many different types and can cause - redness or rash or raised spots or other lesions on the skin, fatigue, fever, flu-like symptoms, & itching, Joint pain, Arthritis, sensitivity to sunlight, sudden outbreak of tender spots, bumps, lumps, or lesions, usually on the legs, knees, and feet, target lesions - spots surrounded by rings of normal and red skin, looking like a target, rash on the face, Clusters of nodules (small round masses) and lesions on shins, forearms, thighs, and trunk, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), the most severe forms of erythema have a different set of symptoms. Target lesions on the trunk, hacking cough, fever, and blisters around the mouth, eyes, nostrils, and anal and vaginal areas are the key symptoms of SJS, TEN will have symptoms of SJS that worsen to include peeling and detachment of the skin, pus-like infections, fluid loss, and even death.), ATAXIA (is the inability to maintain normal postures and perform normal movements. Movements are jerky and uncoordinated, without the smooth flow of normal motion. Ataxia may affect any part of the body. Ataxia occurs when there is breakdown in communication among the brain centers responsible for coordinated movement. These include areas responsible for sensation and balance. Symptoms may include tremors, involuntary back-and-forth eye movements, Postural instability, swaying while standing, wide-based gait, sometimes likened to a "drunken reeling", uneven stride, with steps of different lengths and not always straight forward) FEVER, and reports of DEATH. There have also been reports of SEIZURES in dogs.

In the above paragraph, the words in italics were added by me, to describe what all of these conditions THEY list, really are, and what they can cause. The words in capital letters are the only things they listed, failing to mention what they are.

Believe me, I know from personal experience. The damage caused by these products, and the damage caused by annual (unnecessary) vaccinations, has been DIRECTLY CONNECTED to many, many health problems your pet may develop immediately after use or further down the road, by numerous studies and personal experiences of some of the most notable homeopathic vets in the country.

The evidence is overwhelming if you care to read it. The two best homeopathic vets are Dr. Richard Pitcairn, D. V. M. , Ph. D, (who has written 2 books) and Dr. Martin Goldstein, D. V. M. (who has written one book). I have all three books, and they are real eye openers! Dr. Goldstein's book in particular (which was a bestseller), has a whole chapter devoted to the "Dubious history of Vaccines", and also talks specifically about commercial pet parasite control products and their dangers to both animals and humans. Annual vaccination of pets has lead to more deaths, than any other single pet disease in the US, and had even been given a name.... Vaccinosis. Google that word, and see how much info shows up........ TONS. And, not only for pets, but humans also.

They also have websites. Dr. Goldstein's is : http://www.drmarty.com/

and Dr. Pitcairn's is : http://www.drpitcairn.com/

You can purchase used copies of all of their books on Amazon.com cheaply ($5. 00 or so). And they are VERY WORTH the money, if you care about your pet's health.

Good Luck!

Valerie J.

Replied by Julie (khia) Mersch
(Kerman, California)
01/12/2015
★★★★★

Thank you SO much for that very thorough sharing of gentle and effective ways to help our cat friends. Actually, I appreciate everyone who took the time to share their experiences. My cat protested so vigorously and got so long-term mad at me when I used vet recommended drops for mites ("apply daily for 6 weeks") that I gave up after the first few days. In time things got so bad I felt like an unfit care-giver. I wanted to do something, but not even start until I felt it would help and not harm, while being effective enough to be worth whatever protests/rejection my cats might dish out. Everyone's sharing has been helpful, but your post in particular has reassured me considerably. I'm ready for the campaign now. Again, thank you.

Replied by John Cole
(Saipan)
11/19/2015
4 posts
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Read the label on Revolution, for cats, about mites. Does it not say something like "for the treatment and control of ear mites"? Not cure, eradication, not resolution... Besides, do you want a systemic pesticide circulating through your kitty when there are no long-term studies on safety? (My guess is that long-term, it'll shorten your cat's life.)

I tried an old-school (maybe organophosphate type) ear-drop miticide on my cats. Not only did it not get rid of the mites, but it caused severe inflammation and open sores that took weeks to heal.

Mineral oil worked FAR, FAR best for my cats.

Replied by John Cole
(Saipan)
11/27/2015
4 posts
★★★★☆

I previously told you about weeks of misery from cat ear mites being gone in 24 hours. That was true.

Tommy, a small tiger-looking cat who conned me into taking him in, here in Saipan (my original four cats came with me from Japan), had been suffering for weeks from what was obviously ear mites according to my knowledge. The first squirt of "baby oil", consisting of mineral oil and "olive oil essence" with a very minimal odor, stopped the severely lowered ear position, head shaking, and scratching very quickly.

Three or four days later, those signs starting popping up again, slightly, so I gave one more squirt in each ear. Again, very helpful. Then five or six days later, a lower level of those same signs, so I just gave one squirt in each ear.

I think this is the same treatment a vet might charge $50 for. Depending on the severity of the infestation and your cat's overall health, diet, and freedom to exercise and get sunshine, you might need to treat with mineral oil more than once, up to perhaps five or six times, to get complete resolution.

I took Tommy's brother, Toby, to the vet several weeks ago for the same condition. Although I avoided examining the bill for details ( "anger management" ), I suspect I paid $40 to $60 for a squirt of mineral oil in each ear.

It's not a magic cure, but the best thing I have found for ear mites so far.

Replied by Ràchel
(Seattle, Wa)
02/02/2016

Pups àre at high risk.


Medications
Posted by Lisa (In The Country, Massachusetts) on 02/26/2008
★★★★★

Ear Mite Remedy - Perfection. Here is one I heard from a vet....who also admitted they will never tell you this in the office since it will cause them to lose out on some profit. This worked for my male adult cat who would never let me near his head - ever. Take the flea and tick medication (I cannot for the life of me remember which brand I used) and put one drop and one drop only in each ear. I did this for my cat, literally all I did was put one drop in each ear, no rubbing, no rinsing, nothing. The ear mites disappeared, never came back again, and he was a brand new cat that just loved attention! Give a try and see for yourself!

Replied by Timothea
(Newberry, FL)
03/16/2008

To Lisa from In the country, massachusetts--Please come back and tell us exactly what flea/tick med you use-one drop /ear to end mites. Thanks.

Replied by Lyn
(Salinas, CA)
03/06/2008

Lisa from In the Country, Massachusets: PLEASE revisit and tell us exactly WHICH medication you used. I doubt that all of them are effective and some are significantly more expensive than others.

Replied by CECILY
(SONORA, CALIFORNIA)
02/26/2008

PLEASE PLEASE....THERE ARE SO MANY POSSIBLE REMEDIES FOR EAR MITES FOR MY CAT...BUT I JUST CANNOT GET THEM IN HER EAR....SHE WAS AN ALLEY CAT IN HER FORMER LIFE AND DOES NOT ALLOW PEOPLE TO TOUCH HER THAT MUCH AT ALL.I LIVE ALONE WITH NO ONE TO HELP ME TO HOLD HER DOWN...I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW OF ANYTHING I COULD PUT IN HER FOOD TO CURE IT AS HER EARS ARE A MESS AND I FEEL SO BADLY I CANNOT GET TO HELP HER. THANKS FOR ANYONE TO SUGGEST SOMETHING.

Replied by Sue
(Shrewsbury, MA)
03/25/2008

I read a posting from "In the Country" MA regarding one drop of flea and tick treatment to rid cats of ear mites. Is there any way you can contact her to find out what product she used? If not, would it be safe for me to try ONE drop in each ear of Frontline on my cat for ear mites? Thank you for your help!

Replied by Tia
(Auckland, New Zealand)
04/29/2008

Hi Cecily, and others with similar problems, I know how this is going to sound, but when we love our cats sometimes we have to do things they hate in order to help them, what I've done with cats that I've rescued and needed things like ear drops, pills, etc, is to use the sleeve of a thick coat, and literally put the cat through it so the head only comes out the end, and YES the cats in question would dislike me for a few days, but with patience and treats they always trusted me again.You can buy a cheap thick coat at an op shop, ones with liner are better, as it helps get the cat in and out, and you can cut the sleeve off with extra material around the entrance.

Replied by Meredith
(Greenwich, CT)
06/16/2008

I know that I'm not supposed to mention a product name, but perhaps the filters will let this through for the sake of information. Revolution kills ear mites. I have used it with great success (and no harmful side effects) on two of my cats. My mother is a vet tech, and she advises 2-4 drops in each ear. Be advised that Frontline does not kill ear mites, so make sure that you buy Revolution. The good news is that even though it's expensive, you only need to apply it once. For the cat who will not suffer ear drops, you can apply Revolution topically to the neck (a normal application as described in the Revolution info packet) and it should kill the mites. This is, of course, not a holistic remedy. However, when cats have chronic ear problems, it really affects their quality of life. Sometimes you need to bring out the big guns. Hope this helps!

EC: We've had a lot of requests for the name of the medication from Lisa (who never responded to the questions), so thanks for this...

Replied by Margaret
(Upper Darby, PA)
08/24/2008

RE: Holding down a cat:
An easy, friendly way to hold a cat so that you don't get shredded during care is to toss a quillt over their back, as they are unsuspecting, then wrap them up in your arms and hold them like a baby. you can hold them with one hand and give care with the other. Have all your supplies on a table beforehand, so you can easily grab them with your one hand. Eventually your cat will know that when you do this he/she does not need to be scared. My cat no longer needs to be wrapped up when I cut her nails. She growls quietly, but is never violent.

Replied by Animegirl
(Milford, Oh)
11/22/2011

hi, I have a four month old munchkin male kitten. I just got him neutered, but the vets office said he had ear mites. I just got him a little over a week ago when this happened. I have another cat and two chihuahuas I know it can spread. The vets office did say the treated the ears, but I still see the black looking stuff in his ears. I do own zymox will that kill ear mites? Also I see the same black stuff in his nose is that ear mites as well? My brother told me I could use alcohol and peroxide- will that work or will it hurt his ears since he has been itching them?

Replied by Dawn
(South Dakota)
06/15/2015

The medication is Frontline Plus. My vet did the same thing.

Replied by Frances
(Suburban Dallas)
11/08/2015

To Lisa, in the country, Massachusettes..I'm confused by what u mean by any flea/ tick medication. I'm assuming the tiny container of liquid that is rubbed onto the area between cats shoulder blades..if not would you please let us know what you mean as I currently cannot afford a vet because I am getting several strays neutered to get them homes before winter and can only afford the basics.



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