Otodectes cynotis

From WikiVet English
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Otodectes cynotis (Courtesy of C. Antonczyk)
  • Commonest mange of dogs and cats in the world
  • Inhabits the inner ear
  • Also found in the fox and the ferret
  • Closed keratinous bars (apodemes) on ventral surface
  • Life cycle takes 3 weeks
  • Feeds on ear debris


Pathogenesis

  • The majority of cats harbour the mites, however only a few show symptoms
    • Transmission occurs whilst kittens are suckling
  • Brown waxy exudate produced
  • Can lead to secondary infection
  • Clinical signs are apparent
    • Head shaking
    • Ear scratching
    • Aural haematomata


Treatment

  • Acaracidal ear drops
    • Massage base of ear to disperse drops after treatment
  • Most treatments need to be repeated in 10-14 days to kill newly hatched mites
  • Selamectin can be used as a spot-on treatment
    • Prolonged duration of action
  • Treat all in-contact animals
    • These may be asymptomatic carriers