Ears 101

One of the most common problems we see as veterinarians are dogs and cats with ear infections.   Signs of an ear infection are scratching at the ears, shaking the head, or discomfort when the ears are touched, but some pets have few if any signs.  Fortunately, most ear infections are very treatable but the underlying causes, methods or treatments, and medications we use are very different from what we are used to in people.  Add to that, the fact that many animals don’t like having their ears touched and the situation can get frustrating to say the least.  So here are some basics about ears that may prove useful!

Basic Anatomy:  Dog and cat ears are very different from our ears.  Their ear canals are very long and have a “bend” in them creating a horizontal and vertical ear canal.  Most ear infections in pets are external ear infections, or otitis externa– meaning only involving this long external portion of the ear.   These types of ear infections are commonly caused by yeast and bacteria, and although the pet is itchy and uncomfortable, they are typically otherwise healthy.  However internal ear infections, or otitis interna, are possible as well.  Just like in people, otitis interna is associated with more signs of systemic illness.  This type of ear infection in dogs and cats typically involves bacteria in the middle and inner part of the ear.

Ear cleaning:  If your pet suffers from an ear infection, cleaning the ear is an important component of treatment.  This can be a little intimidating but ear cleaning is something most pet owners can do at home.  First, always use an ear cleaner that is intended for dogs and cats.  For dogs with very dirty or waxy ears, pour the ear cleaning solution into the ear canal.  Massage the base of the ear to break up wax and debris, allow them to shake their head, then use cotton or soft gauze squares to wipe out the ear.  You can use your finger to wipe deep into the external ear canal because of that long winding canal that they have.  As a general rule, there is no need to use q-tips.  For cats, puppies, or less dirty ears, you can wet the cotton or gauze with the ear cleaner and use that to wipe out the ears in a similar fashion.  Be thorough yet gentle!  How often to clean you pets’ ears can vary based on a number of factors so it is best to ask your veterinarian.  Typically you can clean up to twice weekly if there is a problem and then weekly to monthly for maintenance.  Clean anytime after bathing or swimming as water or other moisture in the ear can be a cause of an ear infection!

Applying ear medications:  If your pet has an ear infection (otitis externa), your veterinarian will likely prescribe a topical medication to treat it.  The goal is to get the medication as deep into the ear as possible!  It is OK to place the medication bottle into the canal to apply the medication.  The medications are designed so they will not hit the ear drums.  Apply the medication deep to the ears as often as directed and then massage the base of the ear to distribute the medication.  If you are cleaning and treating, always do the cleaning first!  For internal ear infections (otitis interna), your veterinarian may also prescribe oral medications or perform cultures of the ear.  It is very important to use medications as directed and to finish all medications prescribed.  For either type of ear infection, it is also imperative to recheck as recommended to ensure it has resolved!

article written by:

Jessica Smith, DVM

Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect