Otitis Media in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is Otitis Media?
Otitis media is the inflammation of the middle ear, often linked to recurrent otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear). It can result in chronic discomfort and potential complications if not properly diagnosed and treated. Effective treatment of both otitis externa and otitis media is essential for complete recovery.
Causes of Otitis Media
Otitis media can arise from various factors, including:
Infectious Causes:
Bacterial or fungal infections that spread from the outer ear to the middle ear.
Non-Infectious Causes:
Trauma or injury to the ear.
Tumors (both cancerous and benign) in the ear or surrounding tissues.
Foreign bodies: Objects like grass awns or other debris that can enter the ear canal.
Primary Secretory Otitis Media (PSOM):
This condition is most common in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, though the exact cause is not fully understood. PSOM involves the accumulation of mucus in the middle ear and can lead to chronic ear issues.
Signs of Otitis Media
Symptoms of otitis media in pets may include:
Recurring ear infections (often linked to a previous ear problem)
Ear discharge that may be yellow, brown, or bloody
Pawing or rubbing at the ear
Head shaking
Pain around the ear—your pet may avoid having their ear touched
In some cases, facial drooping and balance problems (due to nerve involvement or inner ear issues)
Diagnosis
To diagnose otitis media, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:
Otoscopy: Examining the ear canal with an otoscope to inspect for signs of infection, swelling, or foreign objects.
Ear swabbing: Collecting samples to check for bacterial or fungal infections.
Advanced imaging: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be necessary to assess the middle ear and any potential damage. This may require referral to a specialist.
Myringotomy: A procedure where a small incision is made in the eardrum (typically under sedation) to flush out the middle ear and remove debris.
What You Can Do at Home
If your pet shows symptoms of ear discomfort, it is important to contact your veterinarian for an examination and diagnosis.
These signs often develop over a prolonged period, so work with your vet to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Ear cleaning: In some cases, your vet may recommend using an ear cleaning solution to help with ear hygiene and reduce irritation, though this will not treat the infection itself.
Priority / Urgency / Emergency
*PRIORITY*
Priority: While these symptoms typically develop gradually, otitis media is still a priority condition that requires timely veterinary attention. Most cases are best managed by your regular veterinarian, who may have tried different treatments for your pet’s ear issues over time.
Specialist referral: If the condition persists or becomes more complex, a referral to a dermatologist or an ear specialist may be necessary.
Treatment for Otitis Media
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the otitis media and may include:
Antimicrobial Medications:
Oral or topical antibiotics or antifungals to treat infections.
Steroids:
To reduce inflammation and swelling in the ear canal, especially if the canal is thickened or narrowed.
Ear Cleaning Agents:
Special solutions may be used to maintain ear hygiene, helping to manage buildup and infection.
For PSOM:
Treatment may include oral steroids and mucolytics (medications to break up mucus) to treat the mucus accumulation in the middle ear.
Possible Complications
While complications are rare, some may arise during treatment, particularly with deep ear cleaning or medication use. Watch for signs of complications, including:
Facial drooping (due to nerve involvement)
Balance issues or difficulty walking
Hearing loss or sensitivity around the ear area
If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Follow-Up Care
Follow-up appointments are essential, usually scheduled 2-4 weeks after treatment begins.
During these visits, your vet will assess how well the ear is responding to treatment and check for any recurring infection.
Continue all prescribed medications, even if your pet’s symptoms improve. Infections can linger, and incomplete treatment may cause a relapse.
Contact your vet if symptoms worsen or return after treatment.
Prognosis
Effective management: Most cases of otitis media can be managed effectively with proper treatment, especially if caught early.
Chronic infections: Some cases may become chronic, requiring ongoing treatment or even surgical intervention (such as ear canal surgery) to fully resolve.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with PSOM: Multiple treatments may be required, and in some cases, surgical options may be necessary to achieve long-term resolution.
