Aural haematoma and cauliflower ear
Excessive head shaking and scratching can lead to an aural haematoma. This causes a significant swelling of the ear flap, which must be treated or surgically corrected by a veterinarian around ten days after it occurs. This timing relates to the healing phase of the blood vessel in the ear flap. If the ear is not treated correctly, a very painful cauliflower ear may develop.
Increased sensitivity
All dog and cat breeds can develop an ear infection. In dogs, however, certain breeds are more prone to this condition than others, such as Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
Causes of ear infections
In dogs and cats that spend a lot of time outdoors, ear mites are an important cause of ear infections. These are small white, spider-like parasites that feed on ear wax. They cause itching and are so small that they are difficult to see with the naked eye. They can also cause intense itching around the head and neck, which may persist for several weeks even after the mites have been treated. In addition, various types of bacteria and yeasts also thrive in the ear canal and can cause problems.
Symptoms of an ear infection
The symptoms of an ear infection are usually quite clear. The animal may shake its head, scratch at the ears, cry out in pain and often hold its head tilted to one side. The inside of the ear flap appears red and dirty. In addition, there may be a very unpleasant smell and discharge from the ear. In the case of a middle ear infection, the balance organ can be affected, leading to more severe symptoms. The animal may walk with its head tilted more frequently, develop balance problems, walk in circles or even fall over. Thorough examination is essential for any animal with an ear infection. The veterinarian will need to check whether there is an infestation with ear mites and or an infection caused by bacteria and or fungi in the ear canal, or whether another condition is present. Sometimes additional tests are required, such as a smear or culture of the ear wax, or X-rays of the skull.
What to do in case of an ear infection?
In the case of an ear mite infestation, good results can be achieved with ear ointments containing an insecticide. Infections caused by bacteria or yeasts require antibiotics or antifungal ointments. When the ear canal is very dirty, the ears are first flushed under light sedation. In animals that are severely affected, pain relief or anti-itch tablets may be prescribed to reduce discomfort. In the case of a middle ear infection, long-term antibiotic treatment is necessary. Animals with recurrent or chronic infections may develop an overgrown ear canal. It is important to check for growths and foreign objects, as obstruction or damage to the eardrum can lead to partial or complete hearing loss.
If your dog quickly develops excessive ear wax, the Otoact Ear Cleaner is a suitable option. Use it outdoors, as your dog will shake its head and large amounts of ear wax may be expelled. If the ears are also irritated, combining this with ICF Otodine is highly effective. This ear cleaner inhibits the growth of micro-organisms such as bacteria and yeasts in the ears. If symptoms do not improve, always consult your veterinarian.
Preventive measures
For dogs or cats that are prone to ear problems, it is important to prevent symptoms as much as possible. This can best be done by regularly cleaning the ears and ear canals with an ear cleaner. Suitable products include Monoclean Ear Cleaner, Epi-Otic SIS or HexoClean. If your dog has no symptoms, it is NOT necessary to use these products.
Important: never attempt to clean the ear canal with cotton buds.
Treatment of mild outer ear canal complaints
In cases of mild irritation or redness of the outer ear canal, Dermiel Ear Drops can soothe the ear and support recovery. These complaints can also be treated naturally with Puur Auris. If symptoms persist or your animal has more severe ear problems, consult your veterinarian.
Do you have any questions about ear infections in dogs or cats, or ear problems in general? Please contact our veterinarian at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
