Mites are micro-organisms that dwell in water, soil and even in animals. Rabbits are among such animals that are prone to ear mites, wherein these microscopic mites, settle into the ears of the animal. In the following article, you can learn some home remedies for this problem.
Rabbits being furry animals, are susceptible to mites, fleas and ticks. These are amongst the common health issues that animals suffer from. It is necessary to take care of your pets as the slightest health ailment can limit their lifespan. Learning more about the disease is important in order to cure it.
Ear mites belong to the Arachnid family. Due to their thick furs, rabbits are known to suffer infections from ear mites, burrowing mites and also fur mites. These organisms are not quickly visible to the eyes. Therefore, many a time they go unnoticed and continue to make small colonies in the ears of the animal. The common and the largest mites species is the Psoroptes cuniculi. These mites can affect the outer skin and face of rabbits. It can even cause deafness. It takes four days for a ear mite’s eggs to hatch. The larva then feeds on the skin oil and earwax till it develops into an adult mite.
Symptoms
Mites cause discomfort to a great extent. Infected rabbits tend to scratch their ears and shake their heads. In case the intensity of the infection is severe, it can cause the ear canals to bleed. This is a source of nutrition for the insects who tend to suck on the blood of the animal. If not treated on time, they can infect the head, ventral abdomen, neck and perianal region. Frequent scratching, develops thick yellow scales on the skin of the ear. It contains parasites and mite feces, which causes further infection. As the infection becomes severe, the ear becomes weak and the rabbit won’t be able to hold up its ears. The animal also suffers from pain in the external ear canal. If the infection is left untreated, it will further cause loss of fur, inner ear infection, and inflammation of the skin.
Home Cures and Remedies
This is a common problem in rabbits. There are many tried and tested remedies available that help you cure your rabbit from the discomfort caused by them.
Almond Oil
Almond oil is a good source for curing such infections. It is easy to make and gives quick results. Mix ½ ounce of almond oil and 400 IU of vitamin E. Let the mixture be slightly warm. Using the dropper bottle, apply it on the infected area and gently spread it with cotton. Use this treatment for 6 days. After the first course, allow a gap of three days and resume the course for 6 weeks. Almond oil helps in curing and enhances the process of healing.
Mineral and Corn Oil
Even mineral and corn oil work wonders. To relieve your rabbit from pain, gently massage the oil to the inner side of the ear. Apply the oil for three days, which will soothe the skin and comfort your rabbit. Mineral oil can also be used as a substitute to corn oil. Soak the cotton with some mineral oil and gently swab the inside of the ear.
Extract of Yellow Dock Root
Using the yellow dock root extract is among the common remedies to cure this infection. Dilute the extract with water and with the help of a dropper, place in the ear. Continue the treatment for several days to clear the problem. Regular use of the treatment prevents new hatchlings and even alleviates the infection.
White Vinegar
White vinegar acts as a cleanser and helps remove all the dirt settled in the ears. Dilute a little vinegar into water and apply it to the rabbit’s ear. Use a cotton ball or a soft cloth to apply the mixture.
These remedies can prove beneficial when the intensity of infection is less. In case of severe infection, consulting a veterinarian is always a better solution. This is a contagious infection and early intervention can save your rabbit from severe health conditions.