Is there anything that actually gets rid of ear mites?

Ever since taking in a street cat about a year ago my cats have been having ear problems. The problem apparently is a triple threat of mites, bacteria and yeast. I'm most majorly focused on the mites because it seems like they're impossible to kill. I've tried all sorts of remedies, both natural and poison. I don't know what to do anymore.

What I'm interested in finding out is if anyone here has ever successfully conquered ear mites. If so, what did you use? **Please don't suggest anything that you didn't personally use and can verify is "tried and true".** Thank you for any input!

I've had success with Acarexx from my vet, which is an ivermectin suspension. I had to do it twice, even though the packaging says 1 dose is usually enough, but it did work after natural treatments had failed. This was a very bad ear mite infestation, but there wasn't anything else involved.

For yeasty ears, the best thing I've found is Zymox.

I completely agree with Acarexx and Zymox. Though, I think Acarexx may have been discontinued??

Oops, I didn't know that. I just Googled and apparently it has been discontinued. 

You can, however, find instructions on various websites for diluting injectable ivermectin to use for earmites in cats. It would be the same thing as Acarexx.

ETA: a couple of online pharmacies do seem to be still selling it, however. I don't know. Ask your vet if they have or can get it.

For yeast infections, the only thing that worked for my kitty was BNT ear med.  It's a goopy gel-like paste that the vet inserts in the ear and it takes about 10 days for the body to absorb.  http://www.bcpvetpharm.com/news_bcpbnt.html

For mites, we use Revolution.

Thanks for the information so far. I will look into the ivermectin. Has anyone used the Zymoxx?

StephanieTX, in regards to Revolution originally the vet I went to did put a dose of Revolution on the stray cat (along with giving me some drops for her ears). It wasn't enough obviously, but the vet I went to more recently suggested Revolution again for all my cats in two doses. The trouble is I have 8 indoor cats and 1. The cost is a factor and 2. I don't want to dump pesticides on them for things they don't need..

I actually tried (after discussing it with the vet) taking a small amount of Revolution (on a Q-Tip) and putting it directly in their ears to try to get to the source of the problem. It seemed to bring immediate relief, but within a few days the itching was back. The second time a month later was no better. Maybe I didn't use enough, I don't know, am hesitant to try again.

BTW I did get something from the last vet for the bacteria and yeast but I don't know if that did any good either. Will check out the BNT.

I've searched quite a bit for natural cures but haven't found one yet (I've tried oils, diatomaceous earth, yellow dock, apple cider vinegar and other home remedies).

I just wish this ear bug battle could finally end.

Hi, I'm having the same problem with a stray I've taken in, I just can't seem to shift the ear mites. I've tried surolan twice daily for 3 weeks twice along with Advocate spot on, I've also tried frontline spot on and in ears. The vet has now prescribed revolution/stronghold. I really hope this works, I feel so sorry for her, and she hates having her ears cleaned, and is costing a fortune. Just wondering what solved the problem for you in the end?

I have same problem - tried everything to no avail.  But I think what I have been using has started working.  Diatomaceous earth on the cats, in the ears, in the pet bedding and around the house as well as fastidious vacuuming.  Also Advantage.  The ears are clearing up better and better each time I clean them.  I wonder that mites may be resistant to certain things depending upon different locations?  They are a  pain in the behind to combat though. 

I have read recently that sprinkling Diametaceous earth into the ears will kill mites. I wish I had known sooner, my cat Remy had terrible waxy ears when I adopted him. He also had mites, I would swear that the dr. prescribed Acarexx.It was only 18 months ago so if it was discontinued then perhaps I am mistaken. At the time I didn't think it worked because itching continued. The vet explained that the itching was due to the chronic yeast. I had the be vigilent in keeping his ears cleaned. I switched the cats to a raw diet several months ago and have noticed that his ears are much, much better.Using Revolution every month after treatment for mites will keep the cat from becoming re-infected.

Hi, thank you both for your posts

I've not come across diatomaceous earth before, just wondering where can I buy it, is it available in the UK, and how much do I use?
Was this recommended by your vets?

Thanks again

Don't know too much about diatomaceous earth......except there is food grade and the kind that goes in swimming pool filters.  Think food grade, used for chicken coop mites and such, is what you want.

Ear mites never win with me. I've used two different things.

Gold Medal Ear Mite and Tick is old-fashioned, labour intensive, but effective. Clean the ears of all visible dirt, place the drops in the ear, massage, repeat. It takes time, but if you keep at it, you will win.

Revolution. Follow the directions.