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Background?
The ear is divided into different sections: pinna (ear flap), external, middle and inner ear. This article only discusses the more commonly affected external ear and pinna.
The external canal initially runs downwards (as the animal looks forward), forming the vertical canal, and then it bends 90 degrees inwards towards the skull to form the horizontal canal. The horizontal canal is attached to the bone of the skull where the tympanic membrane (ear drum) separates the external ear from the middle ear. The inside of the pinna and ear canal are lined with a layer of specialised skin.
Symptoms of Ear Disease
Many dogs or cats will shake their head and scratch or rub their head if there is a problem. However, in some animals it will not be obvious. Other signs to look for are holding one ear down and reddening of the skin at the opening of the ear canal. There can also be discharge at the opening to the ear canal - normally this area should be clean or have a small amount of brown wax present.
Causes of ear disease
Bacteria, yeast and ear mites all frequently cause ear disease. Grass seeds are a frequent problem lodged down ear canals, usually during the summer months. However, many animals are prone to recurrent infections - this is often due to an underlying skin disease (eg allergy) or abnormal ear canal linings (eg some Spaniels).
Treatment
Ear infections are typically treated with topical ear drops containing antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. It is important to use them as directed on the label - most will be twice daily - and, as they contain antibiotics, it is vital that a full course is completed. The nozzle of the bottle is placed in the opening of the ear canal and a small amount (5-6 drops) is squeezed in. The ear canal is then gently massaged to spread the medication down the whole ear canal.
Your vet may dispense an ear cleaning liquid to clear the excessive discharge out of the ear so that the antibiotic dros work more effectively. The cleaner should be used before the antibiotic drops so that the medication is not washed out. A generous amount of liquid is placed down the ear canal and massaged well to loosen the discharge. Expect your pet to shake his head which will help to remove the debris - and be prepared for some splatter. The discharge at the opening of the ear can be cleaned with cotton wool. Remember that initially your pet's ear may be sore, so do not be too vigorous with the treament. A reward immediately after ear treatment usually helps to make the next treatment more popular. Cotton buds should not be used down the canal as they can cause damage to the ear drum and are more likely to push wax down the canal rather than remove it.
Occasionally your vet will decide that oral antibiotics are needed for more severe infections, and test to identify the bacteria may be required.
Follow up check ups
Hopefully your pet's infection is only a temporary problem that will be cured with appropriate medication. Some infections are more problematic and if there is an underlying condition causing the infection then long term control measures will be required. It is, therefore, important that your pet's ear is checked by your vet after the course of treatment to ensure the whole ear canal is normal and if any further treatment is required.
