Ear mites

Veterinary advice should be sought before applying any treatment or vaccine.

Ear Mites

Ear mites (Psoroptes cuniculi) can sometimes cause ear irritation in horses. Signs of ear mite infestation in horses include excess ear wax, head shaking, intense itching and rubbing of their ears. Ear mites are small white insects that are barely visible to the naked eye. Horses might also be unusually sensitive to anyone touching their ears.

Symptoms

Headshaking
Head tossing/weaving
Ear rubbing
Itchiness
Crusting
Sensitive to people touching ears
Excess ear wax
Ear swelling
Head shyness

Diagnosis

  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • Endoscopy

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
Fly Control
Anti-inflammatories
Antibiotics
Pyrethrin with ivermectin squirted directly into the ear of the horse
Topical frontline administered directly on the skin inside the ear

Prevention

Prognosis

Scientific Research

General Overviews