Understanding Otitis Externa - Ear Infections

What is Otitis Externa?

Otitis externa is inflammation or infection of the external ear canal in pets. It can a5ect the outer ear and ear canal, causing discomfort and potentially leading to more severe ear issues if left untreated. Common symptoms include itching, redness, swelling, odour, and discharge.

What Causes Otitis Externa?

Several factors can contribute to otitis externa:

• Allergies: Environmental or food allergies can lead to inflammation, which in turn leads to skin barrier breakdown and bacterial or fungal Infections.

• Foreign Objects: Debris, such as plant material or small objects, can irritate the ear canal. A common issue we see in summer are grass seeds.

• Excessive Moisture: Swimming or bathing can lead to moisture buildup in the ear canal, creating an environment conducive to infection.

How Do We Treat Otitis Externa?

Effective treatment typically involves a combination of the following:

1. Cleaning the Ear: If the ear canal has significant amounts of debris and wax, our veterinarian will clean the ear canal, or instruct you to. This will help to reduce the infection by removing debris and discharge, and better allow the medications to work appropriately.

2. Medications: Depending on the cause, your pet may be prescribed:

• Topical antibiotics or antifungals in the form of ear drops. Most medications for the ear canal contain both, in combination with a steroid to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

• Oral anti-inflammatory or anti-itch medications may be prescribed to reduce swelling and discomfort if the symptoms are severe.

How to Apply Ear Medication:

1. Positioning: Hold your pet’s ear flap (pinnae) up to straighten the ear canal.

2. Application: Administer the prescribed medication into the vertical ear canal – you will want to ensure the syringe or nozzle is placed deep into the vertical ear canal to allow for medication to reach the horizontal canal. If placing the syringe/nozzle perpendicular to the head, you should not touch the tympanic membrane (ear drum). A diagram below shows these areas for clarification.

3. Massage: Gently massage the base of the ear to ensure the medication spreads down into the horizontal ear canal as well.

How Do We Prevent Otitis Externa?

Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of otitis externa in your pet:

• Regular Ear Cleaning: Clean your pet’s ears as recommended by your vet, especially if they are prone to ear issues. How frequently you should be cleaning will depend on a few factors. Our veterinary team will inform you as to what cleaning schedule is best for your pet.

• Dry Ears: After swimming or bathing, thoroughly dry your pet’s ears. Veterinary-specific alcohol-based ear cleaners can also be used to help dry out the ear canal.

• Allergy Management: Address any allergies your pet may have. This may include changing their diet to a hydrolysed diet, or placing them on allergy medications. Your vet can have a detailed discussion with you regarding allergies and make an appropriate plan for each individual pet.

• Routine Check-ups: Regular vet visits can help catch and address potential issues early.

Importance of Revisits

Regular follow-up visits with our veterinary team are essential. A dog or cat may appear that the infection is resolved due to the anti-inflammatory drugs in the medication. However, without reassessment by your vet, the infection may remain and return once the treatment stops. We want to ensure the infection or inflammation is resolving as expected. If symptoms persist or change, we can adjust the treatment plan accordingly. Infections left untreated, or unresolved, can lead to further issues such as tympanic membrane (ear drum) rupture, infection into the middle ear or resistance to drugs.

If you have any concerns or notice any changes in your pet's condition, contact our veterinary team promptly. Your proactive care helps ensure your pet remains happy and healthy.