Ear Infection in Dogs and Cats

Otitis, or ear inflammation, also described as ear infection, is a common issue for dogs and cats. Otitis can cause deafness if not treated on time. It is very important to find the cause of otitis, which very often can be an allergy.

It’s classified into three types based on where the inflammation occurs in the ear:

• Otitis Externa: Affects the outer ear canal.

• Otitis Media: Affects the middle ear.

• Otitis Interna: Affects the inner ear.

Otitis Externa is the most common type in pets and can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). It’s often caused by allergies—such as food, environmental, or flea allergies. When allergies trigger inflammation in the ear canal, they can also lead to secondary problems like bacterial or fungal infections.

Why Otitis Externa Can Be Challenging:

• Primary Cause: Allergies are the main cause (affecting more than 70% of cases). These allergies can be hard to detect at first and may only show up when secondary infections occur.

• Secondary Infections: Once the ear canal is inflamed, bacteria and fungi can infect it, making the condition harder to treat. Some bacteria and fungi are resistant to antibiotics, complicating treatment.

Certain pet breeds are more prone to otitis externa, including:

• Dogs: Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, Poodles, Basset Hounds, Bulldogs

• Cats: Persians, Siamese

Preventing and Managing Otitis Externa:

To prevent the condition from becoming chronic, it’s crucial to identify the primary cause early. Allergy tests for dogs, cats, and horses can help pinpoint food and environmental allergens that should be avoided.

What to Do:

• Watch for Signs: If your pet shows symptoms like itching, redness, or discomfort in their ears, consult your veterinarian right away.

• Get an Allergy Test: This can help identify specific allergens and guide you in making adjustments to your pet’s diet and environment to prevent secondary infections and manage the condition effectively.

In summary, otitis can be challenging, but with early detection and proper management, you can help keep your pet's ears healthy and free from chronic issues.

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