Ear Diseases in Pets

Ear problems in animals are common and often frustrating conditions. There are many causes for the problems we see – yet the presenting signs are identical. To be able to correctly identify your pet’s underlying problem and to construct a useful treatment regime aimed at reducing recurrence we approach each case in a structured manner.

Defining the problem

Otitis Externa means inflammation of the external ear canal/outer ear. Otitis media refers to inflammation of the structures deeper than the ear drum.

Understandably most people think a sore ear equates to infection. Ear infections are incredibly painful so correct identification and treatment is important for your pet’s well being. However we will always look for reasons as to why a pet has an ear infection. It is by gaining an understanding of the underlying disease that we can look at ways to control your pet’s problem.

Symptoms of sore ears

Signs may include: Head shaking, scratching at ear/s, red or swollen ear flaps, odour or discharge from the ear/s. A head tilt may occur if there is middle ear disease. Behavioural changes occur due to pain.

Causes of Ear Problems

Allergy – the most common cause. Includes environmental or food allergies
Hypothyroidism (low Thyroid levels)
Anatomical abnormalities
Parasite infestations such as ear mites
Foreign bodies such as grass seeds
Glandular abnormalities
Keratinisation defects

Many of these problems will lead to secondary infections making the ear problem more severe.

How we investigate ear problems

Apart from looking at the full history, diet assessment and parasite control we will perform an ear exam. The ear exam (otoscopic exam) allows us to look at what is happening in the ear canal, assess the ear drum and collect material for examination. At times a foreign body such as a grass seed is found.

We perform Cytology on the material collected from the ear. This involves making a smear, staining and then examining the material under the microscope. This helps us to choose the correct medications and in deciding if a culture is required. In general only Rod-shaped bacteria or recurrent cases require culture as antibiotic resistance is common in these cases. Repeat cytological examinations are performed to assess the progress of your pet’s ear condition and to decide if any change in medication is required.

Once we have the problem under control we will concentrate on looking for and dealing with the underlying problem. This may include a food trial to rule out food allergy, parasite control, and ongoing treatment to reduce allergy problems. A referral to a dermatologist for Intra-Dermal Skin testing may be advised. At this stage we assess the ear for permanent damage that has occurred due to the infection and inflammation as this can lead to recurrent problems.

How we treat ear problems

Due to the painful nature of the condition, in the majority of pets will need anaesthesia or sedation to allow accurate assessment. At this time we thoroughly clean the ears and assess the ear drum for damage – if it is damaged there are some medications that should not be used.

Once we have looked at the cytology sample we will decide on the correct medication for your pet. We may need to culture the material to make sure the correct drugs are used. The severity of the ear condition will determine the length of treatment your pet receives.

In general most cases will go home with ear drops, ear cleaners and oral medications depending on the findings of the examination and cytology.

Reassessment is vital

One of the more common reasons for relapse of ear conditions is poor follow-up. We recommend that ears are rechecked regularly after treatment to make sure that treatment can be stopped. We frequently see cases where an animal appears better but repeat cytology shows only a partial resolution.

Reassessment allows us to decide what ongoing treatment will be required to keep your pet’s ear condition under control. This may involve using alternative ear cleaners, use of topical medications on a regular basis or periodic ear flushes. The aim of treatment is to reduce recurrence. We find that the more a client becomes involved in ongoing care the better the outcome for that pet.

Your pet’s treatment plan

Our treatment plan for any pet may alter once any culture results are obtained or once the ears are rechecked. The aim is to make the condition manageable at home by you so you have a happy and healthy pet.