Other Insects

Sarcoptes mites can be found anywhere along the ear canal from the pinna to the horizontal canal, resulting in severe pruritus.

Chiggers (Trombicula) are also found in the ears of dogs in some geographi­cal areas.

Fleas are not generally thought of as a primary cause of ear disease, but the pres­ence of fleas and the cutaneous sensation that they stimulate can cause a dog or cat to scratch the ears raw (Figure 5-5). Other types of insects can find the ear canal and can become lodged there, resulting in irritation or even a blockage of the ear canal.

Demodex folliculorum in mineral oil.

Figure 5-5

Dog and cat fleas can cause severely pruritic ears, although the fleas are rarely found in the ear canal.