Psoroptidae
Guides
Otodectes cynotis
Ear Mange Mite, Ear Mite, Common Ear Mite
Otodectes cynotis is a parasitic mite in the family Psoroptidae, the sole species in its genus. It is a non-burrowing ectoparasite that inhabits the external ear canals of mammals, causing otitis externa. The mite completes its entire life cycle on a single host in approximately three weeks. It is distributed worldwide and primarily affects domestic cats, dogs, and ferrets, though it has been recorded on numerous other carnivores and occasionally humans. Infestation causes intense pruritus, head shaking, and ear scratching, and can lead to secondary bacterial infections in severe cases.