What are the common symptoms of ear mites?

Ear mites typically cause intense itching, frequent scratching or head shaking, and dark brown discharge or an unusual odour from the ear canal. If you have concerns, consult your vet to arrange an examination.

How does a vet confirm an ear mite infection?

The vet will typically use an otoscope to examine the ear canal and take a sample of the discharge for microscopic examination. Cytology or blood tests may be added if concurrent infection is suspected.

How long does it take for ear mites to improve with treatment?

Mild cases may show improvement within a few days, but you must complete the full course of treatment as directed and return for follow-up to confirm a negative microscopic result. Full resolution typically takes several weeks.

Can ear mites spread to other pets?

Yes, ear mites are contagious and other pets in the household may also become infected. If you notice similar symptoms in any of them, have them checked at the same time and ask your vet for advice.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Ear Mites in Dogs & Cats: Intense Itching, Microscopic Diagnosis & Treatment [2025]

Ear mites are common external parasites that cause intense ear itching and dark, waxy discharge. Highly contagious between animals, they require regular ear cleaning and antiparasitic treatment.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap editorial team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Large amounts of pus-like or bloody discharge continue to drain from the ear
•A sudden, marked drop in appetite with extreme lethargy
•Head tilt or clearly unsteady walking

Schedule a veterinary visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Persistent frequent scratching at the ears or repeated head shaking
•Black-brown or foul-smelling discharge in the ear canal
•Itching affects sleep or activity and causes behavior or mood changes

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Ear mites commonly cause intense itching and ear canal discharge; if left untreated, they can disrupt your pet's sleep and daily activity.

Frequent ear scratching or repeated head shaking
Dark brown or fine powdery discharge in the ear canal
Flinching or showing aggression when the ear is touched
Unusual ear odour, redness, swelling, or skin damage
Itching that disrupts sleep or everyday activities
Visible scratches, broken skin, or blood around the ear

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Continuous heavy purulent or bloody discharge from the ear
⚠️ Sudden significant loss of appetite with extreme lethargy
⚠️ Head tilt or obvious loss of balance / unsteady gait

02How to assess the situation at home? Key observations and emergency criteria

Gathering symptom details and contact history at home helps your vet assess severity and determine what further testing is needed.

Track the frequency of scratching, when episodes occur, and whether symptoms worsen at night
Take close-up photos of the ears and short videos of head shaking or scratching
Monitor changes in appetite, energy levels, water intake, and activity
Check the skin around the ears for scratches, broken skin, or blood
Note when symptoms started, any contact with other pets, and any previous treatments
If you have other pets at home, check them for similar symptoms at the same time

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

Diagnosis begins with physical examination and microscopic testing; cytology or blood work may be added if needed to assess concurrent infection or overall health.

Physical examination and otoscope inspection of the ear canal and eardrum

Ear discharge sampling for microscopic examination to identify mites or parasites

Cytology of ear discharge to check for concurrent bacterial or yeast infection

Blood and biochemistry tests if needed to assess overall health

Recurrent or deep infections may require further imaging or specialist referral

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medication, diet adjustments, and care guide

Treatment focuses on ear canal cleaning and vet-prescribed medication; complete the full course and attend follow-up visits to confirm the mites are gone and the ear canal has healed.

Ear canal cleaning and discharge removal performed by the vet or veterinary staff
Complete the full treatment course as instructed and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
Repeat microscopic examination periodically to confirm mites are no longer present
At home, prevent your pet from scratching further and minimise contact with potential sources of infection
Recurrent cases or those unresponsive to treatment may require referral to a specialist for further evaluation

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet quickly identify the cause

Record when symptoms started, how they have changed, and any home treatments already tried

List all current medications, supplements, or topical products being used

Bring photos of the ears and videos of head shaking or scratching for the vet to review

Note any changes in appetite, bowel or urinary habits, and activity level

Bring any previous examination records or treatment history

Consider booking a clinic that offers microscopic examination or otoscopy

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.

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