Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the most common issues we deal with in our practice. While there are primary causes of ear infections such as ear mites, hypothyroidism and sebaceous gland hyperplasia, the vast majority of ear infections are secondary, such as yeast or bacterial infections. In the vast majority of cases, pets do not “catch” the ear infection. The infection is caused by an overgrowth of normal inhabitants of the ear.

A dog’s ear canal is dramatically longer than a human’s, and a cat’s is as well. The canal is not only longer but also narrower, and takes almost a 90 degree turn. Because of this, moisture and debris can easily build up in the canal. This warm, moist environment is ideal for bacteria and yeast to grow. Since they already live there normally, it does not take long for infection to occur.

When we see a pet with an ear infection, the first thing we do is obtain an ear cytology. We take a sample from deep in the canal, stain it and look at it under a microscope. We are trying to determine what type of infection is present, how severe the infection is and if red or white blood cells are present. These findings then lead us in treatment of the infection.

Infection is generally treated for 5-10 days with a recheck scheduled at 2 weeks. At that time we determine if the infection is cleared and create a plan to prevent recurrence. This will almost always include a cleaning regimen as well as determining the primary cause (frequently some type of an allergic issue) and
treatment of it.

Ear infections are common and frustrating in pets but with proper maintenance, can usually be successfully treated and prevented in the future.

- Dr. Chip Cooney