Often the signs of ear infections will be easy to see, but are not always as simple as a bit of dirt or some red skin. Recognising when things aren’t quite right is an important first step to getting your dog or cat the help they need.

What are ear infections?

Infections can be mild with some visible redness or wax build-up, through to serious inner ear bacterial or yeast infections that can rupture the eardrum and cause deafness. Sources range from humid weather conditions, prior injury and allergens – both in the environment and in food – to foreign bodies, parasites and excessive cleaning.

Dogs with narrowed ear canals, overhanging pinnae (external ear flaps) and thick, curly fur such as hounds, gundogs and cavaliers are prone to infection due to the dark, damp and poorly ventilated condition. However, this can affect any breed.

The canine ear canal is also more vertical than that of humans which is great for hearing, but fluid has a harder time draining out.

There are three types of ear infection:

• Otitis externa: the most common, affecting the external part of the ear
• Otitis media: often spread from the external ear, affecting the middle ear canal
• Otitis interna: the most serious, affecting the inner ear canal

What signs should I look for?

Keep an eye out for the following:

• Excessively shaking the head or scratching the ears
• Red, swollen or cracked skin
• Unpleasant smell from the ears
• Discharge that may be coloured, from waxy brown, yellow, green to black
• Resistance to touching the head
• Tilting the head to one side or walking in circles
• Unsteadiness on their feet or trouble with balance
• Vocalisations due to discomfort

My pet might have an ear infection – now what?

Give us a call at 02 9416 1300 to book a consultation and your friendly veterinary team at the Ark will ensure your furry friend’s ears receive the best possible care. Your vet will take a close look at both ears, take some samples to analyse under a microscope and determine the type of infection present. From there, a course of action will be recommended.

Treatments vary depending on the type and stage of infection, including cleaning and/or plucking the ear, anti-inflammatory or antibiotic medication. If the infection is severe and your pet is too uncomfortable during the exam, a more thorough investigation of the inner ear under sedation may be needed.

How can ear infections be prevented?

Regularly check your cat or dog’s ears for the above symptoms. If they go swimming, have a bath or are exposed to excess moisture, ensure the ears are dried as best as possible. If they have had issues with their ears in the past, it is best to tackle any new infections as soon as possible to prevent them progressing. After all – prevention is better than a cure

We can also show you how to clean your pet’s ears safely using products appropriate for their species and condition. For instance – paper towel, cotton buds or makeup wipes can be used on the pinnae, but can leave fibres behind in the ear canal, so we recommend gauze swabs.