What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites are parasites that usually live in the ear canal of animals.

Sometimes, however, they live on the surface of the skin.

And, they jump from animal to animal in close contact situations.

So, unfortunately, ear mites can be highly contagious, especially between cats.

They jump from animal to animal in close contact situations.

Although highly unlikely, there is a risk of humans getting ear mites.

The Symptoms of Ear Mites

The best way to diagnose ear mites is via a microscopic exam done by your vet.

However, there are several common signs of ear mites:

Strong odor coming from the ears
Black or brown waxy ear discharge
Ear inflammation, with the ears being hot and red
Ear canal discharge that looks like coffee grounds
Excessive itching, scratching or rubbing of her ears
Hair loss around the ears
Constant head shaking
Skin irritation and scabs around the ears

Essential Oils to Repel Ear Mites

First and most important: Never pour essential oils directly into the ear canal!

If you are not familiar with essential oils safety, please take the time to read Essential Oil Safety for Dogs and/or Essential Oil Safety for Cats.

And, you must make sure you are using top-quality essential oils that are either steam distilled, cold-pressed, or CO2 extracted. Any other type of processing can leave harmful residues that could make your pet ill.

That being said, there are several essential oils that are an excellent complement to traditional treatment and help eliminate ear mites.

The essential oils work synergistically to reduce itch and relieve irritation in the ear.

How to Make & Apply The Essential Oils

The easiest way to make and apply the essential oils is using a 10 ml rollerball bottle.

Using the rollerball bottle, you can easily apply the mixture around your pet’s ears.

Ear Mite Recipe for Dogs

Add essential oils to the 10 ml rollerball bottle. Top with fractionated coconut oil. Shake well.

Apply the blend daily around the base of your dog’s ears daily.

Also, apply to the very tips of your dog’s ears using a cotton swab.

Then, rub all excess into the inner ear flap.

Never pour essential oils into your dog’s ear canal.

Ear Mite Recipe for Cats

In a small jar, add all essential oils. Then, add the fractionated coconut oil. Shake well.

You will have enough mixture to fill the 10 ml rollerball bottle twice.

Apply the blend daily around the base of your cat’s ears daily.

Also, apply to the very tips of your cat’s ears using a cotton swab.

Then, rub all excess into the inner ear flap.

Never pour essential oils into your cat’s ear canal.

Precautions

Always check with your vet when using herbs, essential oils, or other natural remedies at home. If your pet’s condition persists or worsens, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and does not replace veterinary medical advice.

If you need a good holistic vet or a second opinion, Dr. Marc Smith of Natchez Trace Veterinary Services and Dr. Casey Damron of White Oak Animal Hospital offer telemedicine consultations.

Source: Frezzo, M., Jeremias, MSc. “SpOil Your Pet: A Practical Guide to Using Essential Oils in Dogs and Cats, Second Edition. USA, 2019.