May 01, 2023

Say Goodbye To Your Dog’s Suffering: Essential Oils For Ear Mites

What are ear mites?

The technical name for these microscopic pests is Otodectes cynotis. They tend to live in the ear canal and survive by licking the ear wax and oils on your dog. Though virtually undetectable, the ear mite can be recognized through signs of excessive scratching, head shaking, or discharge in the form of dark coffee grounds within the ear, which is generally a sign of infection. These parasites are highly contagious and can easily pass from one animal to another through normal contact. Although ear mites primarily attack puppies, they do not spare dogs of any age.

As the infestation may only take a few days, a single infected dog may cause such risks and secondary infection due to bright red inflamed tissues due to attempted scratching by the dog. There are various types of processes of ear parasite reproduction. We shall examine this process in detail below: they build nests, lay dormant seeds, and develop and remain immature. Mites reproduce rapidly; thus, within a few weeks of your dog being swarmed with them, they will begin hatching, growing, and then swarming the host all at the same time. The extent of the rapid production can aggravate the issue; hence, the need to know when to treat is critical. They may not only affect the body but also create a distressing environment for the pet and the owner.

What Causes Ear Mites in Dogs?

Ear mites are very contagious and can quickly jump from one dog to an-usual contact to another. The environment is another high contributor of ear mites. Bedding, grooming tools, and, in some cases, sharing a pet with a cat can also lead to the transmission of the infection. Surroundings like shelters, kennels, or other environments containing various animals are especially at risk of outbreaks. The lifecycle of ear mites is valuable to the treatment process. They are most often located in an animal’s otic cavity’s warm, dark, moist areas.

After they invade, they can breed at alarming rates, hence determining the need for prompt initiatives to restrain an epidemic. Understanding the reason and recognizing the symptoms and causes of ear mites allows you to take the right measures well in time against your pet. Essential Oils, which are known to have anti-parasite properties, can be used in conjunction with other methods to protect your dog from these parasites and stay healthy.

Signs & Symptoms of Ear Mites in Dogs

Ear mites are tiny little bloodthirsty bugs that live in the ear canal of dogs, and their presence can bring great discomfort and even suffering to your fluffy best friend. The first thing to be on the lookout for is a lot of ear scratching or rubbing of it. In some cases, you will see your pet trying to scratch with his or her paws the ears or rubbing the head on the floor or other things to reduce the irritation. Moreover, observe closely any sudden head shaking or head twist turning. This kind of action may imply that the mites intentionally give you discomfort or irritable feelings.

How can ear mites affect your dogs’ health?

Ear mites can be small in size, but the repercussions that a dog’s infested with rabbits will go through will be great and disturbing. Ear mites, especially Otodectes cynotis, are tiny eukaryotes that live within your pet’s ears and thrive by residing on skin flakes and cerumen. Usually immoderate itching, inflammation, and pain for your furry friend. As the population of the parasite grows in numbers, a whole lot of health challenges set in. Due to such irritation, most of the dogs tend to scratch and shake their heads terribly, which worsens the condition, leading to secondary infection. These symptoms are commonly found before any irritation is caused, which may include unpleasant smelling discharge, swelling, and redness, thus making the situation worse for the dog.

In the best of circumstances, ear mites can be removed completely only if the affected parts are not visible or accessed. For owners of pets, the situation when a cherished friend is in pain can be very upsetting. Let's take a good look at the ear mites so we can avoid such issues with our pet's hotspots. All contribute individually to better health and faster recovery. Because the usual chemicals found in medicated treatments are not used, such as essential oils, the main reason for the issue can be dealt with.

What essential oil kills ear mites in dogs?

1. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender oil will relieve tension and anxiety, and it is also well known for its antimicrobials. A mild solution containing a small concentration of tea tree oil can be used around the outer ear to prevent mites and inflammation.

2. Tea Tree Essential Oil

The known antifungal and antibacterial properties of tea tree oil make it a good weapon in the treatment of ear mites. Proper treatment must precede this, forever diluting the oil since pure tea tree oil is poison to dogs.

3. Cedarwood Essential Oil

This particular oil is quite popular as a natural insect-repellent oil and Cedarwood oil can also prevent ear mites and heal the skin at the same time. The gentle aroma can help to soothe your dog during the treatment.

4. Peppermint Essential Oil

The brisk smell of peppermint oil can also help to keep away pests. Furthermore, it has cooling effects, which can soothe itchy ears from irritation due to the presence of ear mites. Again, proper dilution should be done to prevent excessive reactions.

5. Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile Oil is notable for its anti-inflammatory and comforting properties. It will assist in relieving pain in your dog’s ears and facilitate recovery as well. A lower concentrated preparation may be used in gentle applications to specific sites to ease discomfort.

6. Frankincense Essential Oil

Because of its property to enhance the immune system, frankincense oil will be of assistance in combating the infection that comes with ear mites. Possibly assisting with the treatment, its fragrance may help to keep your dog calm and less anxious.

How to clean ear mites?

Homemade Solutions: For a more organic option, three simple ingredients can suffice – white vinegar, water, and a few drops of essential oil in equal proportions to the above. It is essential because the ear canal is a dark area and the acidity of the vinegar helps to kill any mites and help clean the ear canal. However, if there are any signs of ear drum rupture or open ears, this solution shouldn’t be used.
Cotton Balls and Pads: When doing the ear cleanup of a dog, it is important to use cotton balls or pads to remove all visible dirt, wax, and possibly even eagles inside the dog's ear. Dip some cotton into the liquid that you are using to clean and drag that within the outer ear canal. Do not put any gadget deep inside their ear since it may hurt them or push dirt further down their eardrum.
Routine Ear Checks: You can also put this knowledge to good use by incorporating regular ear checks when grooming your dog to reduce the extent of possible infestation by ear mites. Signs that indicate the problem include too much beard scratching for no apparent reason, stinky ears, red ears, and any discharge. This applies, however, to when such symptoms are detected, more often than not, the dog owner is still able to take corrective measures rapidly.

How to prevent ear mites in dogs?

Limit Exposure to Infected Animals: Ear mites are extremely contagious and are usually transferred from one animal to another via direct contact. If you have more than one pet, also watch for signs of infestation in all of them and segregate whoever is infected. Be careful when you go to dog parks or grooming centers. The chances of getting affected are higher.
Keep Your Home Clean: Vacuum frequently and clean your pet’s bed, toys, and grooming tools, as mites can still stay on other surfaces in your household. Use a pet-friendly insecticide in any location that your dog plays on if you suspect there might be some infestation.
Boost Their Immune System: With the aid of a vigorous immune system, your pet, such as a dog, can also combat parasites like ear mites. Make sure such a healthy dog gets all nutrients by making sure that it has a proper nutritious diet, enough physical activities, and scheduled visits to the veterinarian.
Consider Preventative Treatments: Consult your veterinary office regarding prophylactic medicine that can ward off ear mites. Such remedy, which contains essential oil, is an added protection against insect attack as well as warding off ear mites.

Moksha is an established Wholesaler, manufacturer, and exporter of essential oils and other Essential oil products in India. Depending on the intended usage, offers the most genuine essential oils of only the highest quality. They contain no chemicals, additives, or fillers. Furthermore, this does not include synthetic colors, synthetic preservatives, or synthetic fragrances. In other words, that makes them excellent for everyday use. Practically speaking, while the essential oil is 100% natural, it is prudent to use carrier oil before applying it to the skin because of the high concentration level. We carry out several tests and quality checks to make sure only the best and the real essential oil is delivered to you.