Go to a clinic immediately if
- There is head tilt, loss of balance, difficulty walking, abnormal eye movement, facial weakness or severe pain
- Severe pain, complete canal swelling or suspected foreign material needs same-day assessment
Possible signs
- Head shaking, scratching, odour, redness, discharge, pain or intolerance of ear handling
- Swelling of the ear flap, flinching on touch or shielding one side of the head may indicate more severe pain
What it is
Otitis externa is not simply an “ear infection.” The primary cause may be allergy, parasites, a grass awn or another foreign body; bacteria and yeast often overgrow secondarily in an altered canal. Canal anatomy, moisture and previous inappropriate treatment can perpetuate disease. Unless every cause is addressed, inflammation often recurs and may extend into the middle or inner ear.
What to expect at the veterinarian
The veterinarian will examine the ear flap, skin, canal and eardrum and assess discharge under a microscope. Severe pain, swelling or obstruction may require sedation or anaesthesia for safe examination and cleaning. Chronic, one-sided or neurologic cases may need culture, allergy work-up or imaging. Medication is selected for the identified cause and the condition of the eardrum.
Sources
- Guideline or consensus statement. Ear Infections and Otitis Externa in Dogs