Difference between revisions of "Otitis Externa - Cat and Dog"
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
== Introduction == | == Introduction == | ||
| − | + | ''[[Otodectes cynotis]]'' is a non-burrowing mite that can cause Otitis Externa. It is the most common mite of cats and dogs worldwide and is also seen in foxes and ferrets. The mite feeds on surface tissue in the ear and debris. Pruritus is caused by irritation and the saliva of the mites, which is immunogenic. '''Secondary bacterial infection''' is common, resulting in purulent otitis externa which will require more treatment. | |
| − | The classical presentation of ''Otodectes'' mite is otitis externa, which affects the external ear canal. In cats, another presentation can be seen, which is that of an ectopic infection where signs are seen on other body parts such as the tail. This is due to contact e.g. cats sleeping in a curled position would allow mites to infest that area. | + | The classical presentation of ''Otodectes'' mite is otitis externa, which affects the external ear canal. In cats, another presentation can be seen, which is that of an ectopic infection where signs are seen on other body parts such as the tail. This is due to contact e.g. cats sleeping in a curled position would allow mites to infest that area. |
== Clinical Signs == | == Clinical Signs == | ||
Revision as of 08:49, 1 August 2011
Introduction
Otodectes cynotis is a non-burrowing mite that can cause Otitis Externa. It is the most common mite of cats and dogs worldwide and is also seen in foxes and ferrets. The mite feeds on surface tissue in the ear and debris. Pruritus is caused by irritation and the saliva of the mites, which is immunogenic. Secondary bacterial infection is common, resulting in purulent otitis externa which will require more treatment.
The classical presentation of Otodectes mite is otitis externa, which affects the external ear canal. In cats, another presentation can be seen, which is that of an ectopic infection where signs are seen on other body parts such as the tail. This is due to contact e.g. cats sleeping in a curled position would allow mites to infest that area.
Clinical Signs
Clinical signs include head shaking, scratching of the ear and even the development of an aural haematoma because of the two above signs. The animal may often resent this area being touched. A brown waxy exudate is produced and this later becomes crusty. If secondary bacterial infection has occurred then pus will also be seen in the ear canal.
Diagnosis
Clinical signs and history are indicative of the disease.
Visualisation of the mites via an auroscope will provide definitive diagnosis.
Treatment
Topical ear drops usually contain acaricide, fungicide, antibiotics and steroids. These should be dropped into the ear and the base of the ear then massaged to help the drops disperse. In cases of severe wax build up, ceruminolytics may be useful.
Selamectin as a spot on also acts to prevent Otodectes.
All in contact animals should be treated in the household as these may be asymptomatic carriers.
References
Blood, D.C. and Studdert, V. P. (1999) Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary (2nd Edition), Elsevier Science.
Bond, R. (2008) Dermatology Study Guide, Royal Veterinary College.
Foster, A, and Foll, C. (2003) BSAVA small animal dermatology (second edition), British Small Animal Veterinary Association
Fox, M and Jacobs, D. (2007) Parasitology Study Guide Part 1: Ectoparasites, Royal Veterinary College
Also see: Ear Mites in Ferrets
 |
This article has been peer reviewed but is awaiting expert review. If you would like to help with this, please see more information about expert reviewing. |