Our furry friend can be affected by a number of diseases throughout its life, one of the most common being... otitisThis pathology consists of inflammation of the epithelium of the external auditory canal and the auricle, and can affect up to 20% of the canine populationThus, if we notice that it gives off a unpleasant smellIf your pet is secreting more earwax than normal and scratching frequently, we will need to take a series of measures to restore the health of their ears to good condition.
For this reason, we are going to tell you how to treat canine otitis. Do not miss it.
What exactly is canine otitis and how does it affect the ear?
The dog's ear is divided into three sections: external, middle and internalOtitis externa is the inflammation of the external auditory canal. This canal varies between 3 and 10 cm in length depending on race and has an "L" shape, with a vertical and a horizontal section that opens into the ear canal. eardrumBehind this lies the middle ear (with the ossicles malleus, incus, and stapes) and the inner ear, responsible for the hearing and balance.
When inflammation occurs, the duct can suffer hyperkeratosispigmentation changes or even stenosis (narrowing) due to fibrosis, which hinders healing and can lead to deafness if not treated on time.
Common symptoms: How to detect otitis in your dog
It is crucial to recognize the signs early. The most common symptoms include:
- Otic pruritusFrequent scratching of the ears or rubbing of the head against surfaces.
- Head jerksThe dog shakes its head repeatedly.
- Abnormal secretionsExudates that can range from dark brown or purulent yellow to greenish.
- Bad smell: An intense and unpleasant aroma coming from the ear canal.
- Physical changes: Redness (erythema), swelling of the earlobe, alopecia in the area or scabs.
- PainExtreme sensitivity when touching the base of the ear or irritation when trying to clean them.
In advanced cases or chronic otitisthe dog may present the head bowed to one side, pain when opening the mouth or barking, and balance problems if the infection has reached the inner ear.
Causes and risk factors of otitis externa
Otitis rarely occurs in isolation; there is usually a primary disease which alters the function of the duct and allows for a secondary infection. The main causes are:
- ParasitesThe most common being the mite Otodectes cynotis.
- Infections: Bacterial (such as Staphylococcus o Pseudomonas) and fungal (such as malassezia o Candida).
- Allergies: Atopic dermatitis or food hypersensitivity.
- Strange bodies: Such as ears of corn or seeds that can injure the eardrum.
- anatomical factorsBreeds with floppy ears (Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Labrador) or with a lot of hair in the duct (Poodles, German Shepherd).
- Environmental factorsHigh humidity, high temperatures, or the fact that the dog swims frequently (known as swimmer's ear).
Professional diagnosis at the veterinary clinic
If you suspect that your dog has otitis, it is important that you take him to the vet as soon as possibleThe professional will perform a detailed examination using a otoscope to inspect the ear canal and the integrity of the eardrum.
For an accurate diagnosis, the following tests are usually performed:
- Cytological examination: Collection of secretion with a swab to analyze under the microscope the presence of bacteria, yeasts or mites.
- Bacterial or fungal culture: Indicated when the infection does not respond to initial treatment.
- imaging testsX-rays of bullae, CT scan or MRI in cases of otitis media or interna.
- DermatohistopathologyBiopsy to rule out neoplasms or autoimmune diseases.
How to treat canine otitis: Options and procedures
Depending on the cause, you may need antibiotics or clean your ears with special eye dropsThe goal is to remove the wax, reduce the pathogen load, and treat the underlying cause.
1. Cleaning the ear canal
Hygiene is the foundation of success. [The following phrases appear to be unrelated and possibly from a different source: "They are used earwax solvents or ceruminolytic agents. To remove earwax from the folds, Use a gauze pad previously moistened with a few drops of the eye drops. And, very carefully, take it off.
ImportantNever use cotton swabs, as they can push dirt further in or damage the epithelium. If the dog becomes nervous, stop and play with him; this will help him associate cleaning with something positive.
2. Topical and oral medication
- Ear dropsCombinations of antibiotics, antifungals and anti-inflammatories (such as dexamethasone).
- CorticosteroidsThey can be topical or systemic (such as prednisone) to reduce severe inflammation.
- Innovative treatmentsCurrently, there are options for single dose applied by the veterinarian that ensures complete administration without depending on the home routine.
- oral medications: Systemic analgesics or antibiotics in severe cases.
This article It can serve as a guide to know how to clean your friend's ears.
Prevention and long-term care
To avoid relapses, especially in dogs with a genetic predisposition, follow these recommendations:
- Thorough dryingDry your ears thoroughly after each bath or swimming session.
- Periodic reviewsIt is recommended to take your pet to the vet. every six months.
- Allergy controlMaintain a proper diet and control external parasites.
- Moderate hygieneAvoid excessive cleaning or the use of irritating products that may alter the natural flora of the ear.
Canine otitis is a disease that takes time to heal and is often recurrent. The success of the treatment lies in the identification of the primary cause and strict adherence to the medication prescribed by the specialist to avoid permanent complications in your pet's hearing.