Rabbit Ear Mites: Symptoms, Treatment, and What That Crusty Buildup Means
If you notice your rabbit shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or spot thick, brown, crusty material building up inside the ear canal, ear mites are near the top of the suspect list. Rabbit ear mites are among the most common health issues in pet rabbits — and one of the most treatable.
What Are Rabbit Ear Mites?
The most common ear mite in rabbits is Psoroptes cuniculi (AEMV Pet Care Guides, 2024). These microscopic parasites live in the ear canal, feeding on skin and tissue fluid. As they reproduce, they cause intense inflammation and produce characteristic thick, tan-to-brown crust that fills the ear canal. Left untreated, the infestation can become severe and spread beyond the ear.
Symptoms
- Head shaking — frequent or persistent
- Scratching at the ears — especially with the hind feet
- Thick, crusty buildup inside the ear — initially in the canal, can spread to the outer flap
- Head tilting to one side in more advanced cases
- Pain response when the ear is touched
- General irritability or restlessness
What You Should NOT Do
Do not attempt to clean or remove the crusts at home. The crusts are attached to inflamed, sensitive skin tissue. Pulling them off causes pain and bleeding. Treatment is medication that causes crusts to fall off naturally as the mites die.
Treatment
An exotic vet will prescribe:
- Ivermectin or selamectin (Revolution) — given as an injection or topical treatment, usually two doses 2–3 weeks apart
- Occasionally anti-inflammatory medication for discomfort
All rabbits in the same household should be treated. Clean and disinfect bedding and living areas.
When to See a Vet Urgently
- Crust is extremely thick and filling the entire ear
- Your rabbit has stopped eating or is in obvious pain
- Head tilt is present — the infection may have spread to the inner ear
What's going on with your pet?
Describe symptoms or snap a photo. Voyage tells you urgency, home care, and whether you need a vet.
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