🔎 What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites in rabbits are caused by the parasite Psoroptes cuniculi. These non-burrowing mites infest the ear canal, causing intense itching, inflammation, and crusting. They can spread to the head, neck, and body if untreated :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

📣 Signs to Spot Early

• Frequent head shaking and scratching around ears
• Crusty scabs, flaking, or thick debris in the ear :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Hair loss around the base of ears
• Inflammation—redness, swollen ear flaps
• Reduced appetite or lethargy in severe cases :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Sometimes head tilt if infection spreads internally :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

🧬 Why They Happen

Ear mites are highly contagious among rabbits—transferred by direct contact or contaminated bedding. Lop breeds are especially prone due to warm, humid ear folds :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

🩺 Veterinary Diagnosis

Diagnosis is via ear swabs and microscopic examination to identify mites or their eggs. Vets may also inspect for secondary infections or deeper complications like head tilt :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

💊 Treatment Plan

• Ivermectin: oral, injectable or topical; often repeated at 2–4 week intervals :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Selamectin (Revolution): spot-on applied to the back of the neck in 2 doses, 2 weeks apart :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Pain relief/anti-inflammatories: Often NSAIDs for comfort :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Antibiotics: For secondary skin infections or open wounds :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Ear cleaning: Only under vet supervision—forceful debris removal may cause trauma. Crusts soften after 7–10 days of treatment :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

🏡 Home Care & Environment

Successful treatment also involves managing surroundings:

• Isolate infected rabbits until treatment is complete :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Wash all bedding and sanitize cages—mites can survive up to 21 days off-host :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Consider replacing wooden hutches that harbor mites permanently :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Trim claws to prevent self-inflicted wounds during scratching :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Avoid OTC treatments meant for dogs/cats—they may contain toxic pyrethrins :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

✅ Prevention Tips

• Quarantine new rabbits for 2–3 weeks before introducing them to colony :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Regularly check ears for debris or inflammation
• Maintain clean living spaces with routine sanitation
• Discuss spot-on preventatives with your vet during high-risk periods

📋 Quick Overview Table

🧠 Vet Tips for 2025

• Always confirm drug choice and doses with a rabbit-savvy vet
• Combine systemic treatment with environmental control to break mite cycle
• Softening crusts before removal reduces trauma and preserves skin integrity
• Ensure cohabitating rabbits receive treatment to prevent outbreaks
• Track progress—repeat treatments every 14 days until debris-free

🔚 Final Thoughts

Ear mites are common but treatable. With early detection, vet-guided medications, careful home hygiene, and repeat follow-up, your rabbit can recover quickly and itch-free. In 2025, prevention through regular checks and clean environments remains essential. Reach out early—your bunny’s comfort and hearing depend on it! 🐇❤️

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