Ear mites itch in dogs is an inflammation of the external ear caused by the parasitic mites of the genus auricularia. This mite is distributed all over the world, and the infection is common in dogs.
Causes of ear mites itch in dogs
Pruritus auris parasitizes on the skin surface of animals and feeds on the exfoliated epithelial cells. When feeding, it can secrete toxic substances, which cause chemical stimulation of epidermal nerve endings and cause severe ear itching. As a result of local intense stimulation, the skin is thickened, resulting in reddish-brown crust; When there is secondary bacterial infection, it can cause otitis externa, otitis media, and encephalitis in severe cases.Main symptoms of ear mites itch in dogs
Because Pruritic mites live in the external auditory canal, it will cause a large amount of ear fat secretion and lymph overflow, and often secondary suppuration. Dogs with severe itching often scratch their ears with their forepaws, resulting in ear lymph extravasation or bleeding. Ear hematoma and lymph accumulation are common under the skin of the ear. The affected dogs often shake their heads and rub their ears, sometimes causing depilation, damage or inflammation of the ear roots, and even bleeding of the external auditory canal. The brown and black crusted exudates could be seen in the ear canal, and the auricle was deformed for a long time or in severe cases. In the case of secondary bacterial infection, the lesion may penetrate into the middle ear, inner ear and meninges, and encephalitis and neurological symptoms may occur.Diagnostic criteria for ear mites itch in dogs
1. A large amount of earwax in the ear canal can be observed by naked eye or otoscope. The disease can be suspected if the dog often shakes its head, scratches or ruffs its ear.2. Examine the exudate with a magnifying glass or a low-power microscope and find small white or fleshy motile worms. The diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopic examination of the scratch at the edge of ear hair removal.
