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Canine Inner Ear Infection: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Canine inner ear infection is a common problem in dogs and can cause significant discomfort. Early detection of symptoms and prompt treatment are key to managing the infection. This article covers the symptoms, causes and treatments of canine inner ear infection.
What is Canine Inner Ear Infection?
Canine inner ear infection, also known as Otitis interna, is an infection of the inner ear caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It can cause severe discomfort in dogs and can lead to hearing loss and other complications if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Canine Inner Ear Infection
The symptoms of canine inner ear infection vary depending on the cause of the infection, but they generally include:
- Head Shaking: Dogs with inner ear infection often shake their heads or tilt them to one side in an attempt to relieve the itching and pain.
- Ear Discharge: The infected ear may produce a thick, yellowish-brown discharge. It may also produce a foul smell.
- Hearing Loss: Dogs with inner ear infection may experience hearing loss due to inflammation of the inner ear.
- Balance Problems: Dogs with inner ear infection may have difficulty standing or walking, as the infection can cause dizziness and balance problems.
Causes of Canine Inner Ear Infection
Canine inner ear infection can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Bacterial or Fungal Infection: Bacterial or fungal infections can lead to inflammation of the inner ear, which can cause canine inner ear infection.
- Foreign Objects: Objects such as grass awns, dirt and other debris can become lodged in the ear canal, leading to an infection.
- Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation of the inner ear, leading to an infection.
- Parasites: Ear mites and other parasites can cause inflammation of the inner ear, leading to an infection.
Diagnosing Canine Inner Ear Infection
If your dog is exhibiting any of the signs and symptoms of canine inner ear infection, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for a diagnosis. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination of the ear and may take a sample of the discharge to test for the presence of bacteria or fungi.
In some cases, the veterinarian may also order X-rays or an MRI to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing the infection. Once the cause of the infection has been determined, the veterinarian can recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Treating Canine Inner Ear Infection
The treatment of canine inner ear infection depends on the cause of the infection. Bacterial and fungal infections are usually treated with antibiotics or antifungal medications. If the infection is caused by an allergy, the veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines or other medications to reduce inflammation and itching.
In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend cleaning the ear with a special solution to remove any debris or foreign objects that may be causing the infection. If parasites are the cause of the infection, the veterinarian may prescribe a medication to kill the parasites.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any damaged tissue or to remove foreign objects. In these cases, the veterinarian may also prescribe pain medications to help manage the discomfort.
Preventing Canine Inner Ear Infection
The best way to prevent canine inner ear infection is to keep your dog’s ears clean. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your dog’s ears can help prevent infection by removing any debris or foreign objects that may be lodged in the ear canal.
It is also important to keep your dog away from areas where they may be exposed to parasites or allergens. If your dog is prone to allergies, talk to your veterinarian about ways to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
Conclusion
Canine inner ear infection is a common problem in dogs and can cause significant discomfort. Early detection of symptoms and prompt treatment are key to managing the infection. This article has covered the symptoms, causes and treatments of canine inner ear infection.
