Ear Mite Diagnosis:

• The most common symptom of ear mites is a crusty black substance in the animal's ear. Generally, a veterinarian will remove a portion of this crusty black substance and make a diagnosis by viewing the substance under a microscope.
  
  Another common visual symptom is scratching. Most animals suffering with ear mites will scratch their ears repeatedly, or rub their ears along a rough surface. It is also not uncommon to find ear mites on other areas of the body.
  
  

Prescription:

• Providing the veterinarian finds ear mites, he or she may prescribe an ear mite removal medication. You may have to use a Q-Tip to clean the ear carefully; while doing this be very careful, as going too deep into the ear canal can cause damage. Always be sure to follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully.
  
  

Home Remedy

• Use a few drops of olive oil or vegetable oil and massage the animal's ear; this will help in loosening the crusty black substance for easier removal.
  
  Yellow dock root extract and water can also be administered to the ears. Combine 9 drops of the extract with 1 tbsp. water. This solution can take several weeks to completely take effect and should be administered every other day.
  
  White vinegar, almond oil, mineral oil, and corn oil are also commonly used in the treatment of ear mites. Massaging and cleaning the animal's ears will eventually kill the ear mites. Keep in mind that ear mites reproduce quite frequently: even though most will be suffocated by these substances you should be on the lookout for new hatchlings.