Mite Slide

Ear Cytology or Mite Slide

Who Should Be Tested

Dogs or cats showing signs of ear infection.

What Kind of Sample We Need

A swab from the ear canal (we'll do this here; don't try to do this at home).

What We Are Looking For

depending on which we suspect, we'll either put the swabbed material in oil (to look for mites) or smear it on a microscope slide and stain it (to look for infection). Mites, bacteria, or an overgrowth of yeast can all be seen under the microscope.

Why This Test Is Important

So that we provide the right treatment; medication that kills mites won't eliminate yeast, medication for yeast may not handle bacteria, and bacteria-killing meds won't touch mites. While ear mite infestation or ear infection isn't typically life-threatening, mites can be extremely irritating, leading to scratching that may cause wounds and secondary infection, and infection can be very painful.

How Often We Should Test

when symptoms are present, and sometimes after treatment, to make sure treatment has been effective. This test is common, but not necessary as part of your pet's routine care unless there is an ear problem.

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