Ear infections are a common problem for dogs, cats and rabbits, especially those with floppy, oversized or excessively hairy ears. Ear infections can cause extreme discomfort for your pet and can result in further health problems if left untreated so it’s important to seek treatment early.
Types of ear infections
There are three types of ear infections. Infections of the external ear canal is called otitis externa and this is the most common. Otitis media refers to infections of the middle ear and otitis interna the inner ear canal.
Middle and inner ear infections result from the spread of infection from the external ear. Both can be very serious and can result in deafness, facial paralysis and vestibular signs. It is therefore important to seek veterinary treatment early when problems first arise to prevent more serious infections.
What causes an ear infection?
The ear canal of dogs and cats is more vertical than that of humans, forming a long “L” shape that tends to hold in fluid and easily collect debris. Whilst great for hearing, this shape makes dogs and cats more prone to ear infections.
Hairy ears can increase humidity in the aural cavity and cause yeast and other bacterial infections.
Certain animal breeds such as those with floppy, oversized or hairy ears can be more prone to ear infections. This is because floppy ears and excessive ear hair can act as a lid trapping in moisture and heat, which can encourage the overgrowth of yeast or bacteria.
While all rabbit breeds can get ear infections and ear mite infestations, lop eared rabbits are more susceptible to infection than other rabbit breeds. This is because they have a weak point in the canal where it folds over allowing the ear to flop down. This fold is prone to a build up of wax, which can sometimes result in an ear infection.
Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria, yeast or a combination of both. In puppies, cats and rabbits, ear mites can also be a common cause of infection.
Common causes of ear infections include:
Trapped Moisture
Allergies
Heat
Wax build-up
Ear mites
Foreign material
Unknown growth
Excessive cleaning
Hair removed
What are common symptoms of an ear infection?
Ear infections can cause significant discomfort for your pet. Keep an eye on your pet’s everyday behaviour and check your pet’s ears regularly to look out for the following common symptoms:
Scratching/rubbing ears
Shaking head
Abnormal odour from ear
Ear redness or swelling
Discharge from ear canal
Crusting or scabs in the ear
Discomfort or whimpering
Head tilt
Disorientation and irritability
How is an ear infection treated?
If your pet is showing any of the common signs of an ear infection it is important to book an appointment with your local vet as soon as possible. Quick treatment is imperative to not only your pet’s comfort (as ear infections can be painful) but also to prevent the spread of the infection to the middle and inner ear. Do not try to treat your pet’s ear problems from home.
In most cases ear drops can be used to treat the affected ear. If there is discharge or foreign matter, it may be necessary to first clean and flush the ear canal to allow for a full ear examination and effective treatment. Depending on the severity of the situation sedation may be required. Sometimes more than one type of infection could be diagnosed and this may require multiple medications. Your vet will recommend a tailored treatment plan based on their diagnosis.
Checklist for healthy pet ears
There are a number of steps you can take to look after your pet’s ears. Your vet may recommend a tailored preventative program if your pet is susceptible to ear infections. Below is a checklist towards healthy ears in your pet:
Learn what healthy, clean ears look like
Check your pets ears regularly
Clean ears only when dirty, cleaning too often can cause irritation
Use a vet approved cleaning solution
Contact your vet if you suspect your pet has an ear infection
Ear infections are a common pet condition so its important to watch for common signs of scratching, head shaking, discharge, redness or strange odour from your pets ears. If you suspect your pet has an ear infection or irritation, call us on 03 8784 4444.