Understanding Otitis Externa in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Otitis Externa?

Otitis externa is the inflammation of the outer ear canal, which may also affect the ear flap (pinna) and, in some cases, the middle ear. It is a common condition in both dogs and cats and can lead to discomfort and more serious ear issues if left untreated.

Causes of Otitis Externa

Otitis externa can result from a variety of factors, categorized into three main types:

• Predisposing Factors: Conditions that change the ear environment, making it more susceptible to infections:

• Floppy ears (restrict airflow, creating a warm, moist environment)

• Narrow ear canals

• Excessive earwax

• Overgrown hair in the ear

• Frequent swimming (moisture can promote infections)

• Trauma from improper cleaning

• Primary Causes: Conditions that directly cause ear inflammation:

• Ear mites or ticks

• Foreign objects like grass awns or dirt in the ear

• Allergies (skin or food-related)

• Autoimmune diseases that affect the skin or ear tissues

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., hypothyroidism)

• Masses or tumors in the ear canal

• Perpetuating Factors: Issues that make the condition worse, including:

• Ongoing bacterial or yeast infections

• Inflammation of the middle ear

• Structural changes in the ear canal from chronic infections

Signs of Otitis Externa

Look for these common symptoms in pets with ear infections:

• Ear discharge and unpleasant odor

• Redness and swelling of the ear canal

• Rubbing or pawing at the ear

• Head shaking or tilting

• Decreased hearing or sensitivity to touch around the ear

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of the ear infection. Diagnostic steps may include:

• Otoscopy: Using an otoscope to inspect the ear canal.

• Ear swabs: Samples from the ear to check for infections (bacterial, yeast) or parasites like ear mites.

• Additional tests: In some cases, further testing is required to identify underlying issues such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, or masses.

What You Can Do at Home

• If you suspect your pet has an ear infection, contact your veterinarian to schedule an appointment.

• You can clean your pet's ears using an over-the-counter ear cleaner, which may help alleviate discomfort and reduce some of the infection. However, this will not treat the infection itself, so professional treatment is still required.

Priority / Urgency / Emergency

*PRIORITY*

• In most cases, ear infections are not considered emergencies and can be managed by your regular veterinarian.

• If your pet is in severe discomfort and your vet is unavailable, an urgent care visit may be necessary.

Treatment for Otitis Externa

The goals of treatment are to:

• Clean the ears and remove any debris or discharge.

• Reduce inflammation to soothe the ear.

• Treat infections: bacterial or fungal

• Manage underlying causes: e.g., allergies, parasites.

Common treatments include:

• Ear cleaning solutions to remove buildup and debris.

• Medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, or steroids, depending on the cause of the infection.

• In severe or chronic cases, oral medications may be prescribed, or surgery (such as ear canal removal) might be necessary if the infection is recurring and unmanageable.

Follow-Up Care

• Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your pet’s recovery.

• Continue administering all prescribed medications, even if symptoms improve, as infections can persist.

• Contact your veterinarian immediately if symptoms worsen or return after treatment.

Prognosis

• Many cases of otitis externa are treatable, especially if addressed early.

• Chronic cases, particularly those caused by underlying conditions (e.g., allergies), may be more difficult to manage and could require ongoing care or surgery.

• Early intervention improves outcomes, so if you notice signs of ear discomfort, prompt treatment is key to a good prognosis.