Why does otitis media occur in lop-eared dogs? What to do if your dog has otitis media - symptoms and treatment at home

Sometimes treatment for otitis in dogs lasts for years. The pet suffers from periodic complications, the owners get tired of mental anguish, frequent trips to the clinic and significant financial expenses. What's the catch? Why does such a simple and well-studied ailment present unpleasant surprises?

Regardless of the form and severity of otitis, you should contact the clinic as soon as possible. The main mistake that owners make is delaying a visit because the pet seems to be feeling fine.

Attempts at self-medication can also cause complications - drops for dogs against otitis media, which are sold in any pet store, almost always only eliminate the symptoms, but cannot completely overcome the disease. Due to insufficient treatment, otitis media becomes chronic, and sometimes, on the contrary, it manifests itself more acutely - in case of damage to the eardrum, many drops can lead to hearing loss, severe pain, local burn. Whether the eardrum is intact or not cannot be determined by eye - you need to be examined by a doctor.

First aid that the owner can provide:

• if there is discharge, you need to rinse your pet’s ears with warm (37-38 degrees) saline solution or chlorhexidine solution (0.5 - 1%);

• hypothermia and drafts should not be allowed;

• Don't overheat your dog warm compresses on the ears;

• You should not bathe your pet and allow water to get into the ears;

• Do not pick your ear with a stick or swab! Crusts and discharge are washed off only with a stream from a syringe, without excessive pressure;

• when it is not possible to go to the clinic today or tomorrow, Anandin is instilled into the ears once a day. This soft drug, inhibits fungal and bacterial infections, promotes healing of scratches and reduces itching.

Any medicine for otitis in dogs, used topically before contacting a doctor, complicates the diagnosis. Therefore, ears cannot be treated with anything during the day. You need to stop rinsing your ears 12 hours before so that the doctor can assess the condition of the skin, the nature and amount of discharge.

Sooner or later, pet owners have to face the fact that many animal diseases practically replicate human ones. However, this does not mean that they need to be treated with ordinary medications from a pharmacy according to a medical reference book.

Otitis in dogs is an inflammation in the ear that causes pain. It can be caused by infection: staphylococcus, pneumococcus, streptococcus, as well as long-ignored allergies.

Otitis in a dog: symptoms.

Although the dog cannot tell what exactly is hurting, it is easy to guess the cause of the anxiety by its behavior.

• The dachshund scratches his ear for a long time;
• Shakes his head long and hard, as if something had gotten inside;
• The dog has a squelching sound in his ear;
• Fluid with pus flows from the ear;
• Growls and avoids touching the sore spot;
• Loss of appetite, activity;
• Often lies with head tilted to one side;
• The ear canal is red;
• Unpleasant odor;
• Sometimes they increase The lymph nodes.

If you find these or similar symptoms– You must immediately consult a doctor. If you want to know in more detail what otitis media looks like in a dog, photos can easily be found on the Internet.

Classification of otitis media.

It is customary to distinguish three forms of the disease:

• External - the easiest, in which nothing beyond the eardrum is affected;
• Medium – the most common, affects the auditory ossicles and can lead to deafness;
• Internal is the most dangerous, in which the infection can spread to the brain and cause meningitis and death.

Dachshunds have drooping ears, it’s dark and damp inside, oxygen supply is poor, which means the risk of otitis media is quite high. There are purulent forms, exudative and catarrhal, also according to the nature of the course - acute or chronic. Ear inflammation in dogs can be caused by for various reasons. At poor care Fungi, bacteria, viruses accumulate and multiply, sometimes internal diseases such as rhinitis, dental caries can lead to such complications.

If the ears become inflamed with enviable regularity, it is necessary to check the dog for allergies: perhaps the cause of frequent illnesses lies in this process. Dogs often experience negative reaction to hair care products, but there are food and household allergies.

Ear inflammation in dogs: treatment.

Treatment of otitis media in dogs at home.

It is not always possible to visit a veterinarian right away. When trying to help the animal on your own, the main thing is not to harm it even more through inept actions.

• The ear must be carefully treated with a solution of chlorhexidine, miramistin or hydrogen peroxide;
• You can buy a special exudate solution at a pet store; it can be used to remove sulfur;
• Douching with saline will help clear a clogged ear;
• A swab soaked in warm water, remove crusts and discharge;
• After cleansing the ear, you can instill special drops for dogs: Anandin Plus, Otinum, Sofradex or Otipax. For dachshunds, two drops in one ear are usually sufficient;
• After instillation, it is necessary to gently massage the ear so that the liquid is distributed evenly.

Treatment of otitis in dogs at home is often effective for milder degrees of the disease. In case of severe disease, consultation with a specialist cannot be avoided.

Purulent otitis in a dog: treatment.

If there is already a heavy odor coming from the ear and fluid mixed with pus is released, this is a signal to immediately contact veterinary clinic. Only there, with the help of tests, can one determine what caused this severe course diseases, as well as prevent the main dangers: perforation of the eardrum and ulcerative processes.

After sanitation of the ear, the doctor prescribes a 1% solution of dioxidine, a solution of gentamicin, 2% novocaine for pain relief, nitrofungin to destroy fungi and yeast, and insertion of a tampon soaked in water into the ear canal. alcohol solution propolis. Used intramuscular injection antibiotics such as ampicillin. Only a qualified veterinarian can calculate the correct dosage and choose the necessary treatment regimen with serious drugs. Treatment of otitis in dogs at home with this course of the disease is fraught with complications and prolongation of the time the animal suffers from pain.

Staphylococcal otitis in dogs treatment.

No matter how much the owners take care of their pets, the world around them is full of bacteria and microorganisms, and it is impossible to avoid contact with them. With good immunity, a collision with them will not be dangerous. But even the healthiest animal sometimes still gets sick.

Staphylococcus is constantly present on the skin of humans and dogs. In summer, as well as during mating, the activity of this microbe can increase. At the same time, it can cause diseases both independently and give complications to already ongoing pathological processes. Risk factors are:

• Diabetes;
• Avitaminosis;
• Liver and kidney diseases;
• Allergic conditions;
• Fleas and ticks;
• Weak immunity.

Infection of the ears with staphylococcus can cause paralysis of the facial nerve, cause otitis media with ulcers and erosions, which can also be accompanied by conjunctivitis and rhinitis.

Pus in a dog's ear is an excellent material to determine the source of the problem. In the laboratory, it is examined under a microscope, after which complex therapy is prescribed. Veterinarians perform active or passive specific immunotherapy, give immunostimulants, as well as quinolone antibiotics. To increase their effectiveness (given that this microbe is capable of quickly changing and adapting to drugs), a “cocktail” of two or three antibiotics is often prescribed at the same time.

Purulent otitis media in a dog mandatory also includes local treatment aimed at relieving discomfort and pain syndrome. The affected areas must be washed, trying to relieve the itching. To prevent the dog from introducing another infection into sore ear, she is often given a special collar that prevents scratching.

Chronic otitis in dogs treatment.

Treatment of such a disease can take a very long time. a long period. This is especially true if you have encountered unscrupulous breeders or rescued a dog from the street. This is no reason to despair! Otitis media in dogs it sometimes turns into chronic forms, but with proper care and treatment it is possible to defeat it.

Chronic otitis in a dog can also be secondary, that is, develop as a result of another infection or allergy. After relapse of the disease, it is necessary to find the root cause and treat the animal as a whole. Remember, neglecting treatment (they say it will heal on its own “like a dog”) can result in the animal being in best case scenario will become a deaf disabled person, or at worst, die.

Inflammation of the middle ear in a dog, developing into chronic stage, is especially dangerous. As a result, the eardrum can burst, and the accumulated pus can enter the inner ear and meninges. This will cause a severe condition, often ending fatal. Decreased hearing up to its loss in such cases is still a “soft get off.” Therefore, if you are not indifferent to the fate of your dachshund, take measures to recover as quickly as possible.

Otitis of the ear in a dog: prevention of occurrence.

We must not forget about the diet: do not skimp on your animal, because it is completely dependent on you and is not able to feed itself. Buy high-quality food not in supermarkets, but in special pet stores. Sales consultants have the necessary information and will help you choose food based on the requirements of the breed and conditions of detention. Natural products should not be leftovers from the table: the animal must be provided with a complete meal, excluding the ingress of dyes, preservatives, salt and other spices. Remember that otitis in a dog, treatment of its consequences will force you to fork out more large sums than buying good food.

Dachshunds need to wash their ears with special solutions at least once a week. Can be used from time to time vinegar solution and herbal. Marshmallow root, Oregon grape root, and Virginia witch hazel are great for this. Don't forget to massage your pet's ears: it's not only simple, but also pleasant. Start at the base, then move to the sink.

When these simple conditions are met, the question is: “The dog has an inflamed ear - how to treat it?” will not bother you or your pet!

Otitis is an inflammation of the outer ear in dogs. Clinical signs. Causes of otitis. Prevention and treatment .

Inflammation of the external auditory canal ( Otitis externa ) is a fairly common diagnosis in the practice of treating dogs. The disease is based on a variety of causes, and therefore it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive history and a thorough general and local examination.

Etiological factors otitis externa may be caused by ear mites, foreign bodies(most often bristles, grannae on one or both sides), tumors, wounds of the ear canal, for example, from a bite, as well as autoimmune diseases such as pemphigus and allergies, especially atopy and food allergies, and seborrhea and pyoderma.

Chronic atopic otitis in a dog,

Chronic otitis media, indicating inflammation of the ceruminal glands and erythema (redness) of the dog's ear

Damage to the vestibule of the auricle due to autoimmune disease (foliary pemphigus

Predisposing factors : narrow ear canal, severe ear growth (poodle, Cary Blue Terrier), maceration due to water exposure during bathing, pronounced folding on the head, and heavy, low-set long ears (cocker spaniel, American dachshund), and also unskilled cleaning and hair removal.

Towards supporting factors include infection of the external auditory canal due to the above-mentioned causes and predisposing factors. The most important pathogens are staphylococci and streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus, which also often occurs fungal infection. Most often we are talking about yeast fungi Malassezia pachidermatis (former name Pityrosporum canis ), less often about microsporosis and trichophytosis. Along with the otitis externa support obstructive processes (otohematomas, inflammatory changes) and otitis media.

Symptoms

Characteristic symptoms are pain and discharge of various types of secretion from the ear - serous fluid, pus, blood. The animal may shake its ears or tilt its head. Cats may flatten their ears. On examination, redness and swelling of the external auditory canal are noted. In severe cases, an increase in the submandibular lymph nodes on the affected side is observed.

With average and internal otitis There is pain when opening the mouth, difficulty chewing, deafness, there is discharge from the eyes, strabismus, the animal may twist towards the affected ear.

Examination. Divided into examination coat and the entire skin to identify the underlying general skin disease and for the actual ear examination. This must be done carefully, sparing the dog. In principle, both ears should be examined, even when only one appears to be affected. The severity of erythema and edema, the type of secretion, ulceration and the condition of the tympanic membrane provide important diagnostic and prognostic indications.

Diagnosis. For severely suppurating, ulcerated and all chronic mixed forms or in cases where treatment has already been carried out before, it is necessary, before using any drugs, to take a sample on a swab for bacteriological and mycological research (if possible, also determine resistance). The first external examination using an otoscope with an inserted funnel will provide information about the type and amount of ear secretion, which often allows us to draw conclusions about the pathogens. Ticks, if present, can be detected with a magnifying glass. Ticks Otodectes cynotis They look like white, rounded, rather mobile dots 1.5 mm long.

Based clinical trial The following classification of otitis is appropriate:

Primary otitis externa occurs in the absence of other diseases.

Secondary otitis externa is part of the underlying skin disease:

Idiopathic otitis externa cannot be unambiguously attributed to either the first or second group.

Regardless of the type of otitis, the ear canal must be washed and kept clean: remove the enclosing hair either using an arterial clamp, or (only if the eardrum is intact) with a depilatory cosmetic cream, which must be applied for five minutes. Then rinse with a mild, lukewarm solution, such as Otifree , with significant crust formation - 2% solution of salicyl-tannin alcohol, clean the passage with a cotton swab or, better yet, rinse with a syringe, which allows you to inject liquid with controlled pressure. A cotton swab can push a plug of secretion or a foreign body into the depths of the passage and injure the eardrum. If perforation of the eardrum is suspected, you can only use a lukewarm saline solution, or also a 0.5-1% solution of Chlorhexidine, for example Hibitane , or 2% acetic acid solution. Foreign bodies must be removed through the ear funnel using ear polyp forceps.

As a result of sanitation, good visibility of the external auditory canal should be ensured, with as little trauma as possible to assess the condition of the epidermis and eardrum. In primary otitis, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the disease, for example, remove the foreign body, predisposing factors, such as severe growth, are corrected as far as possible, and supporting factors (infectious process) are treated. With secondary otitis, the goal of treatment is to eliminate the underlying disease, after which otitis externa often goes away on its own, or symptomatic local treatment is carried out.

For idiopathic otitis treatment is limited to eliminating predisposing factors and suppressing supporting factors.

The local treatment itself depends on the cause, the condition of the epidermis and the properties of the secretion:

External erythematous otitis. Redness of the ear canal, sometimes increased peeling of the epithelium, the initial stage of more severe forms. Anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. Ciloprin.

External serous otitis. Increased selection earwax. If left untreated, crusts and plugs form, then a bacterial infection develops. Treat with anti-earwax agents, e.g. Otifree followed by treatment with drops containing antibiotics and glucocorticoids, for example Otiprin /

External purulent otitis media. Develops from the forms described above. An oily, purulent, often foul-smelling secretion due to the colonization of bacteria and/or fungi. With prolonged illness, ulcerations of the mucous membrane form and there is a danger of perforation of the eardrum with infection entering the middle ear. You can treat, at your personal discretion, with a 0.1-1% solution of chlorhexidine, 5% povidone-iodine solution, 2% acetic acid solution, 3% hydrogen peroxide solution or solution EDTA - TRIS . If perforation of the eardrum is suspected, treat only with lukewarm saline solution. Follow-up treatment with antibiotics for 2-3 weeks wide range, according to the results of the antibiogram, and glucocorticoids, for example Otosporin and Gentaseptin , or antifungal drugs, for example, Fucidin and Pevet . In severe cases, especially if the middle ear is affected, the systemic treatment antibiotics, fungicides and glycocorticoids. If recovery does not occur after 4 weeks, the diagnosis should be checked and, if necessary, surgery.

External verrucous otitis media. The final stage of external otitis. Thickening of the folds of the auricle, warty formations in the ear canal, which leads to its narrowing, usually caused by fungi Malassezia or infection, often perforation of the eardrum. The operation is indicated.

Prevention

To prevent otitis, it is necessary to avoid the causes that can provoke it. Once a week, inspect and perform hygienic treatment of the ear canal.

Self-medication can be dangerous for animals, so an in-person examination and consultation with a doctor is required.

First aid for otitis: drip Sofradex, Ottinum or Ottipax into the ear. These drops will not cause harm and relieve pain and itching quite well.

If the dog has scratched the ear too much and crusts have formed, they can be carefully removed with a swab containing hydrogen peroxide and the wounds can be treated with a solution of brilliant green. A “squelching” ear can be carefully sprinkled with a powder consisting of one part streptocide and five parts boric acid. At elevated temperature You can give analgin: 0.5-1 tablets, depending on weight. And, of course, do not delay visiting the doctor.

Periodic inspection will save you from many problems. This is an effective preventive measure. Naturally, from childhood, the dog should be accustomed to both examination and cleaning of the ears.

There are many choices when it comes to ear care. modern means: Wetzim drops, powder Ear powder "lines" 8 in 1" and many others. They should be used as needed, there is no need to wipe clean ears. Too zealous care leads to an imbalance in the microflora.

A dog that has had otitis media should be seen by the attending physician at least once a year. And compliance with his recommendations during and after treatment - best prevention relapse.

Technology for treating otitis in dogs

A physical examination should examine the entire body, especially the skin and cranial nerves. Inspect the skin for damaged hair, saliva-stained areas, and erythematous patches. Look for signs of inflammation of the middle ear (facial palsy, Horner's syndrome, keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and signs of inflammation of the inner ear (head tilt, nystagmus, ataxia). Examine the oral cavity for soreness, which is often observed with developed inflammation of the middle ear, chronic inflammation or neoplasms. Examine the ears for tenderness, thickening, and calcification.

Exudative manifestations may vary depending on individual characteristics organism. Otitis caused by Pseudomonas and Proteus , manifested by pain and the release of a large amount of pale or light yellow secretion and ulceration of the epithelium.

Infection with staphylococcus is manifested by the release of exudate from yellowish-brown to gray. In case of tick-borne lesions, a large amount of brown crumbly exudate is released, and in case of yeast lesions, a yellowish-brown to brown exudate is released.

Cytological examination should be carried out for all types of otitis. To collect exudate from the vertical canal, use a dry cotton swab. The resulting material is mixed with mineral oil and examined at 40x or 100x magnification for the presence of mites. Then the second swab is rolled up on a glass slide, the smear is fixed by heating and stained according to Diff Quick , new methylene blue, Wright/Giemsa or Gram. Examine the smear under immersion at 1000x magnification for the presence of bacteria, yeast and inflammatory and epithelial cells. In a smear from an unaffected ear under immersion, individual bacterial or yeast cells can be detected. In dogs with otitis media, coccal forms, staphylococci or streptococci are usually found. Staphylococci usually occur in the form of diplococci (2 cells glued together).

Rods are usually Gr- ( Pseudomonas, Proteus , Escherichia coli). Malassezia pachydermatis – oval or peanut-shaped Gr+ yeast, which is usually found on a glass slide next to epithelial cells. Malassezia easier to detect when cytological examination than through cultivation. If yeast is detected during cytological examination primary cause otitis media can be considered hypersensitivity. If cytological examination reveals only rods, culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing should be performed.

Culture and sensitivity tests primarily help to establish the resistance of bacteria to the agents used for local therapy, especially if local antibiotic therapy has already been carried out and Gr bacilli are detected on cytology; or if you already have inflammation of the middle ear.

Radiography gives good results when examining patients with chronic otitis externa, if the physician cannot determine whether inflammation of the middle ear is present during physical examination; assess the extent of damage in the presence of inflammation of the middle ear; and determine the degree of calcification of the ear cartilages (k indicator surgical intervention). Radiography may give a false negative result when diagnosing inflammation of the middle ear in 25% of patients. CT scan and magnetic resonance are more sensitive methods.

A biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of demodicosis if scraping and cytology give negative results or in the diagnosis of immunological diseases, allergies, adenitis sebaceous glands or neoplasms.

Other diagnostic studies include intradermal allergy tests; antibiotic tests for pyoderma; endocrine tests (eg, thyroid hormone levels); skin scraping for mites Demodex, sarcoptic mange, and Malassezia ; hypoallergenic diets; and cytology of pustules.

Cytological examination of ceruminal glands: yeast-like fungus (Malassezia pachidermatitis)

Measures for inflammation of the outer and middle ear.

The goal of measures for external otitis is to eliminate, prevent and control the primary factors; cleaning and drying the ears; reduction of inflammation; and preventing secondary infection.

Ear cleaning is necessary to remove any accumulated organic matter to facilitate examination and local therapy. The anesthetized animal is placed on its side. The canal is examined and hair or foreign bodies are removed with forceps. Fill the ear canal and cover the outer ear with the cleaning solution and massage the canal for 2 minutes, and the outer ear for 1 minute. Remove excess solution and organic accumulations with a cotton ball. Try not to use cotton swabs, which can injure the epithelium and drive organic accumulations further into the canal. The canal is flushed with warm water or sterile saline twice using a syringe with a balloon or a syringe and a feline catheter, then all fluid is aspirated using an 8 French red rubber catheter. Repeat the examination with an otoscope. If the eardrum is ruptured, the middle ear is cleaned (1% of patients may have short-term complications such as head tilt and nystagmus). Cleaning may not be effective or possible if the ears are severely stenotic or swollen. Systemic or local application glucocorticoids or antibiotics to relieve inflammation and swelling before the final cleansing. It is necessary to continue local treatment after complete cleaning and drying of the canal (suction of fluid). To suppress Gr+ cocci, use neomycin, gentamicin or chloramphenicol. If Gr bacilli are detected during cytological examination, polymyxin, enrofloxacin, gentamicin or amikacin should be used. Enrofloxacin is used to treat a ruptured eardrum. If yeast is present, use clotrimazole or miconazole. You can also use a 2.5% solution of acetic acid or silver sulfadiazine (1 g of powder in 100 ml of water). Glucocorticoids are used topically to relieve inflammation. Dimethyl sulfoxide enhances the penetration of glucocorticoids such as fluocinolone, which reduces hyperplasia. Ototoxic substances should be avoided when using DMSO to enhance penetration and absorption of the substances. Owners should apply topical therapy 2-3 times daily, massaging the ears for 60 seconds after each application. To remove excess earwax, use special means to clean ears every 3-7 days.

Additional studies should be carried out every 2 weeks to monitor the dynamics of the process (whether there are improvements) and the patient's compliance with the regimen and treatment regimen, and to develop a long-term treatment plan. Cytological studies are necessary to further assess the response to treatment.

For example, if bacteria and yeast are absent, but inflammation continues, then the primary factors can be considered to be allergic otitis or otitis due to excessive sulfur production. If bacteria persist despite appropriate treatment local treatment, then we can talk about bacterial resistance to these drugs.

Specific therapy.

Earwax solvents are used to clean ears. They contain surfactants or emulsions that promote dissolution sulfur plugs, soften them and help remove exudate. Water-soluble substances contain docusate (DSS ) or propylene glycol; mineral oil, lanolin and glycerin are not water-soluble substances. Urea peroxide softens wax plugs.

Cleansing/drying agent mixtures are water-soluble and contain wax solvents and drying agents such as alcohol and alpha hydroxy acids (lactic, salicylic, malic), which have moderate antibacterial and antifungal effects.

Owners should be instructed how to clean the ear canal using special cleaners and massage ear cartilage for 1-2 minutes, then remove any wax buildup or allow the dog to shake it out. Cleaners work more effectively if the liquid is left in the ear for 15-20 minutes. The use of cleaners is contraindicated in cases of perforation of the eardrum due to possible ototoxic effects.

Rinse solutions are used to remove wax build-up or organic build-up. The safest are water or sterile saline. Chlorhexidine, povidone iodine, xenodin and acetic acid can also be used.

Chlorhexidine (0.05%) is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, has a long-lasting residual effect for 2 days and is not inactivated by organic substances. May be ototoxic, but in one study no ototoxic effects were observed after 21 days in dogs with experimentally perforated eardrums. Povidone iodine (0.1-1%) is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial substance, although Gr-organisms are more resistant. It has residual activity for 4-6 hours, but is inactivated by organic substances. It may also be ototoxic and may cause contact allergy in some animals. Xenodin diluted 1:1 with water has effective action for resistant strains Pseudomonas . It has a long-lasting effect, causes less tissue reaction than povidone iodine and interacts less with organic matter. This substance is more effective in aquatic environment. Acetic acid (at a dilution of 1:2-1:3) acidifies the internal environment of the channel and has antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas , staphylococci, streptococci and coli, dissolves accumulations of organic substances, but can cause inflammation.

Topical treatments are usually applied twice daily. A treatment principle that is often followed is: “If it's wet, dry it. If it’s dry, moisturize.” In other words, if the ears are wet, drying agents should be used, and if the ears are dry, flaky, oil-based agents should be used, which have a moisturizing effect.

Medicines are often divided into first and second choice drugs (see list at end). First-line medications (i.e., Trezadem, Panalogue) are used for acute or occasionally recurrent otitis externa; they usually contain antibiotics and corticosteroids, some contain antifungal components. Second choice medications (i.e. Synotic, Otomax, Enrofloxosin) for chronic or recurrent cases with significant proliferative changes or persistent microflora. Solutions or lotions are often used for more acute exudative lesions because they cause less disruption of patency. Ointments and oil-based substances are used in the treatment of drier chronic otitis externa.

Local application of antibiotics and antifungal substances is necessary for most types of external otitis, since the corresponding microorganisms multiply in the inflamed canals. Topical glucocorticoids are prescribed to most patients because they have anti-inflammatory, vasoconstrictive effects, relieve itching, reduce proliferation and reduce secretion. Dimethyl sulfoxide is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that also has analgesic, dehumidifying and mild antibacterial/antifungal effects. Dimethyl sulfoxide prevents excessive formation connective tissue and facilitates the absorption of antibiotics and glucocorticoids. It is often used in combination with fluocinolone (“Sinotic”) for developed allergic and proliferative external otitis. Dimethyl sulfoxide potentiates the ototoxic effect of other drugs.

Systemic use of glucocorticoids or antibiotics should be prescribed for inflammation of the middle ear, developed acute external otitis, or recurrent or chronic external otitis. Antibiotics should be effective against staphylococci, streptococci and Escherichia coli (i.e. 1st generation cephalosporins, amoxicillin with clavulinic acid, chloramphenicol) and against Pseudomonas (enrofloxacin, ticarcillin, ceftiofur) in chronic cases in which other antibiotics are ineffective. Culture isolation and sensitivity testing are necessary to select appropriate antibiotics. Prednisolone is prescribed at 0.5-1.1 mg/kg/day for severe inflammation or proliferative changes, the dose is gradually reduced after 2-3 weeks of treatment.

Specific diseases are external bacterial otitis.

If a cytological examination reveals a large number of leukocytes and bacteria, especially if the latter are localized within the leukocytes, it can be concluded that bacteria are involved in the pathogenesis of otitis externa. Acute or occasionally recurrent otitis media with bacterial isolation on cytological examination are treated with topical medications, often neomycin. Chloramphenicol also works satisfactorily as a broad-spectrum topical antibiotic, but is not effective against Pseudomonas . Gentamicin should not be used in acute and occasionally recurrent cases to avoid the development of microflora resistance. Before using antibiotics, cleansing/drying agents should be used (increasing local action). Systemic use of antibiotics is indicated for significant tissue swelling, a huge number of inflammatory cells on cytological examination, tissue ulceration or dermatitis around the auricle.

With the constant detection of bacteria during cytological examination, especially in the presence of Gr-bacillus, it can be concluded that the microflora is resistant to locally used drugs. If the microflora is resistant, drugs containing gentamicin are used topically, or local and systemic use of drugs is stopped for 3-5 days, then a culture is isolated and tested for sensitivity to antibiotics.

For otitis caused by Pseudomonas , apply topical polymyxin B, colistin sulfate, amikacin, or enrofloxacin, or choose a systemic antibiotic based on susceptibility testing results. You can also additionally use glucocorticoids, topically or orally. When stable Pseudomonas to all antibiotics in a standard test, repeat sensitivity testing with stronger antibiotics (eg, ceftiofur) or use silver sulfadiazine, xenodin, chlorhexidine or Tris-EDTA with or without gentamicin ( Tris-EDTA enhances the effectiveness of gentamicin against Pseudomonas).

Other primary or predisposing factors such as atopy, food allergies or anatomical changes should also be considered.

Infections caused by Malassezia (yeast mushrooms).

Malassezia (yeasts) are opportunistic pathogens that cause inflammatory changes. Often the main problem is allergies. Antifungal agents include ketoconazole, miconazole, nystatin and clotrimazole. Miconazole is 10 times stronger than nystatin. The activity of amphotericin and thiabendazole varies depending on the type of pathogen. Owners should also use a cleansing/drying agent every 24 to 48 hours. Local use of glucocorticoids is indicated to relieve inflammation. When stable malassezia use clotrimazole, miconazole, silver sulfadiazine (mix 50:50 with water and apply every 12 hours), orally ketoconazole (5-10 mg/kg every 12 hours for 2-4 weeks; you can use a prolonged form of 5-10 mg/kg kg every 48 hours) or oral itraconazole (5 mg/kg/day for 2-4 weeks).

Specific treatment - ear mites Otodectes.

Ears are cleaned, then applied topically active ingredients or systemically apply acaricidal substances, treat all animals that have been in contact with the infected animal. Pyrethrins, carbaryl and rotenone have no effect on tick eggs, so they should be used for 21-28 days, throughout life cycle tick. Thiabendazole is effective against ticks at any stage of development, including eggs. It may be necessary to treat the entire body with a flea solution or spray as the ticks may move to another area of ​​the body. Disinfection should also be taken into account environment. Ivermectin has an effective effect both when administered orally and when administered locally and parenterally. Dosage 3mg/kg once a week for 3-4 weeks or 3mg/kg every 10-14 days. Ivermectin should not be used in collies, Old English Danes, Australian herding dogs and their crosses. Before using ivermectin, you should test for heartworms.

Demodecosis.

Demodicosis can be generalized or localized on the ears (especially in cats). For treatment use Trezaderm, a solution of amitraz in propylene glycol (dogs, diluted from 1:30 to 1:60), orally ivermectin (0.6 mg/kg every 24 hours for 2-3 weeks, subsequently as indicated), or orally milbemycin oxime (1 mg/kg every 24 hours for 2-3 weeks, then as indicated).

Allergic otitis media.

Allergic otitis media tends to chronic course or relapses. Allergies should be controlled with diet, oral glucocorticoids, antihistamines, fatty acids or decreased sensitivity. Sick animals require supportive local therapy. The initial goal of therapy is to relieve inflammation and control the development of secondary/opportunistic infection. First choice medications such as Tresaderm or Pananalog should be used if microbes are present. If cytological examination does not reveal microbes, substances that relieve inflammation are used (for example, sinotic). Along with control of bacterial/yeast microflora, maintenance therapy is used, depending on the degree of development of the disease. For subacute allergic otitis, cleansing/drying agents are used. For moderate allergic otitis, weak glucocorticoids/astringents (HB 101 or Burov's fluid (?) or Cort/Astrin ) or glucocorticoids/cleaning/drying agents ( Epi-otic or Clear X ). In advanced cases, stronger glucocorticoids are used ( Synotic ). Long-term topical use of strong glucocorticoids is contraindicated because they are absorbed and have systemic effects and cause the development of symptoms similar to Cushing's syndrome. Long-term use of solutions containing antibiotics can lead to the development of microflora resistance, as well as have an ototoxic effect or cause the development of an allergy to medicinal substances. If the animal is prone to recurrent bacterial or fungal otitis with allergies, Tresaderm should be used every 48 hours throughout life, or when severe inflammation ears should be used Synotic with chloramphenicol (2-4 ml/8 ml synotic every 48 hours, wear rubber gloves when using). In case of relapse Malassezia Treatment should be with a cleanser/drying agent 1-3 times a week and conofite solution with the addition of dexamethasone (4 mg/kg) or long-term oral ketoconazole every 48 hours. Managing allergic ear infections is similar to treating atopy or food allergies.

Inflammation of the outer and middle ear.

Otitis due to excessive formation of earwax .

Serum otitis is associated with endocrinopathy (hypothyroidism, sex hormone imbalance) or idiopathic seborrhea. Affected animals exhibit mild to moderate inflammation and excess accumulations of yellow sulfur. Such animals are prone to developing secondary yeast or bacterial infections. Monitoring of primary factors should be carried out until otitis is completely cured. If necessary, apply continuous local therapy; after cure of secondary yeast infection/ bacterial infection maintenance therapy with glucocorticoids or glucocorticoids/astringents is prescribed, and routine rinsing with cleansers/drying agents or simply drying agents is also carried out.

The specific disease is idiopathic inflammatory/hyperplastic external otitis of cocker spaniels.

There are reports that Cocker Spaniel idiopathic inflammatory/hyperplastic otitis externa occurs in other spaniel breeds as well. Otitis media develops at an early age and gradually progresses, causing proliferation, canal stenosis, cartilage calcification, and progresses to inflammation of the middle ear. In sick animals there are usually no other skin diseases. This condition should be differentiated from atopy, food allergies and idiopathic inflammation of the sebaceous glands of the ear in cocker spaniels. Active glucocorticoid therapy (topical) is necessary, and some patients may require oral glucocorticoids every 48 hours to control the disease. Resection of the lateral auditory canal does not make sense; total resection with osteotomy of the tympanic bulla is indicated for stenosis, significant proliferative changes and cartilage calcification.

Proliferative otitis externa.

Proliferative otitis externa requires aggressive local (dexamethasone, betamethasone, or fluocinolone) and systemic glucocorticoids if inflammation occurs, and also local and systemic antibiotics to eliminate deep-localized infection. Oral prednisolone is started at 1 mg/kg/day and tapered over several weeks. Total resection of the auditory canal with osteotomy of the tympanic bulla is recommended.

External otitis of swimmers.

Swimmers' otitis externa may be based on an allergic component accompanied by a secondary bacterial or fungal infection (yeast). The infection is suppressed with topical medications, followed by ongoing maintenance therapy using drugs such as isopropyl alcohol or aluminum acetate. Acetic acid is used as an antimicrobial and cleansing agent, and is also used in the treatment process HB 101 Epiotic HC or Clear X , as well as steroids for allergies.

Chronic irritation.

Chronic irritation from topical application of drugs - contact hypersensitivity. The most common reactions are to neomycin, sometimes to propylene glycol, in some cases to acetic acid, alcohol, glycerin, povidone iodine. Cytological examination reveals neutrophils; bacteria and yeast are absent. At severe irritation the irritating agent should be eliminated and oral glucocorticoids should be prescribed (0.5-1 mg/kg prednisolone every 24 hours for 3-7 days). If necessary, switch to the use of substances with an astringent effect and local anti-inflammatory therapy. If necessary, use chloramphenicol as an antibacterial agent.

Overdose.

An overdose is manifested by inflammation of the auditory canal; cytological examination reveals epithelial cells. To relieve inflammation, stop topical use of drugs and cleanse with a mixture of vinegar and water (1:2-1:3) within 24-48 hours.

Inflammation of the medial ear is a more dangerous and complex disease. The disease affects both organs. If otitis media is not treated, it transforms into a permanent form, characterized by seasonal aggravation, in which the dog suffers debilitating pain. Therapy consists of long cycles of treatment and lifelong preventive measures. Otitis of the medial ear tends to give way to inflammation of the intimate ear and malignant degeneration.

Otitis of the labyrinth is considered the most dangerous of all types of the disease. Increased likelihood of hearing loss and switching pathological process on the brain.

The purpose of this article is to familiarize owners with the signs of inflammation of the hearing organ and ways to help their pet first aid. A conscientious dog handler must remember that his inept actions can transform an acute process into a permanent one, which complicates subsequent treatment. Therefore, after carrying out simple procedures, a reasonable owner of a sick dog applies for veterinary care. Following the instructions of a specialist, the owner of the animal is able to treat the dog at home on his own.

Causes

Long-eared dogs are predisposed to otitis media. To get rid of a problem, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of its occurrence. Based on their origin, the following types of otitis are distinguished:

The most common otitis media in dogs is caused by arthropods. Flea bites irritate the skin, and the dog, driven by itching, tears at the outer ear. The ichor is secreted, which is a breeding ground for bacteria and microscopic fungi.

Of the non-contagious factors, allergic factors cause the greatest concern.

Various irritants - pollen, dietary ingredients, sweets, strong-smelling chemicals or an innate predisposition to hypersensitive reactions cause inflammation, which is complicated by the addition of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms.

Wounds or bruises received while hunting or as a result of unforeseen situations create conditions for the development of the inflammatory process. Swelling occurs, compressing tissue and preventing normal blood circulation, or open wound infection penetrates.

Dogs love to bathe, so water gets into the ear canal. If it remains there, compression of the surrounding tissues will occur, swelling and inflammation will develop. In addition, foreign objects can accidentally get into the ear - prickly parts of plants, dirt.

TO congenital reasons development of otitis should be attributed to personal predisposition to allergic manifestations and anatomical features some breeds. Fold-eared dogs, such as poodles and spaniels, are affected, as well as East European shepherds who have an open ear canal that collects dirt.

The cause of otitis may be developing in ear canal a tumor that requires surgery to remove.

Symptoms

In practice, inflammation of the outer ear, less often the middle ear and the labyrinth, is recorded. There are unilateral and bilateral otitis, and the latter is observed more often. Among the signs of inflammation of the hearing organ are the following:

• The dog changes behavior. Becomes restless or lethargic.
• The animal shakes its head and scratches its ears furiously.
• The intimate surface of the auricle turns red and becomes covered dark coating.
• A mass is released from the auditory canal, which has unpleasant smell, cloudy with a purulent component or transparent.
• The dog is running in a circle. Reacts to touch by whining.
• Local and general hyperthermia develops.
• In advanced cases, the following is observed:

1. Local lymphadenitis.
2. Deafness.
3. Refusal of solid food.
4. Tearing.
5. Loss of coordination.

Treatment at home

Relieving the suffering of a dog with otitis media begins with cleaning the ears. Preparing the hearing organ for treatment involves freeing it from discharge with a specialized lotion. It is instilled into the ears according to the instructions and the liquid contents are removed with cotton swabs or gauze swabs.

Since an amateur dog breeder is not able to establish either the cause of the disease or its phase, his actions should be aimed at eliminating the symptoms, primarily inflammation. It is better to use medications with universal action that have antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antimycotic, acaricidal effects and stop itching. Surolan has these properties.

In the absence of the drug, it is partially replaced by the following:

• Aurikan. Drops of acaricidal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory action.
• Mastiet-forte. Developed as an anti-mastitis suspension for dairy cows. The composition of the microflora affecting the dog’s ear and the milk tank of the udder is similar, so the drug acts equally successfully on both pathologies. Contains the steroidal anti-inflammatory drug Prednisolone.
• Tetra-delta. A drug similar in action to Mastiet-Forte.
• It is successfully used to relieve inflammatory symptoms of otitis media in dogs. Contains a hormonal antiphlogistic agent - prednisolone and a complex of antibiotics.
• Anandin. Anti-inflammatory drops.

If there is no improvement, you should immediately contact a veterinarian.

Prevention

To prevent inflammation of the hearing organ from taking you by surprise, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Check your ears regularly and clean them if necessary.
• Avoid hypothermia.
• Eliminate sweets from your diet.
• Use ready-made feed.
• After bathing, blot your ear with a cotton swab.

An inflammatory process in the ear, or otitis media in other words, can cause discomfort not only to humans. From of this disease Pets often suffer, and for their acute hearing and delicate surfaces of the auricle this is a rather difficult test. If your dog's ears get dirty very quickly, they give off an unpleasant odor, the animal shakes its head very often and tries to comb its ears, then you should take your pet to the veterinarian. Most likely, we are talking about otitis media in a dog.

Otitis in a dog photo

There are several classifications of the disease. By location infectious process Otitis is divided into:

• External - inflammation affects the external auditory canal, located between the inlet and the surface of the eardrum.
• Medium - the inflammatory process penetrates deep into the eardrum. Often accompanied by suppuration - this form of the disease is called purulent otitis media. In advanced or complicated forms of otitis, inflammation of the outer and middle ear often occurs.
• Internal - a severe form of the disease, the lesion is localized in inner ear and very often causes various kinds of complications.

Depending on the cause of the disease, the following types are distinguished:

• Primary otitis media occurs as an independent disease and occurs without associated diseases.
• Secondary otitis – inflammation is a complication dermatological disease. Most often, this type of otitis appears against the background of atopic dermatosis, autoimmune diseases, damage to the adrenal glands or thyroid gland.

There is a classification based on the causative agent of the disease:

• Chronic otitis is a complex inflammation that requires consultation with a specialist. It is provoked by streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.
• Fungal otitis media (otomycosis) – fungal bacteria mix with earwax and begin to multiply intensively, causing inflammation.
• Bacterial otitis - pathogenic bacteria often cause the development of otitis, and either one or both ears can be affected.
• Allergic otitis media develops as a result of allergies or hormonal imbalances.

Risk group

Predisposing factors include hereditary predisposition and thallium intoxication. There is a connection between breeds and the development of otitis media, since the disease and its course are associated with the structure of the auricle.

Most often, inflammation develops in owners of long, hanging ears, which are hidden from natural ventilation and are an ideal “breeding ground” for development and reproduction. pathogenic microorganisms. Among breeds with similar problem spaniels and poodles can be noted.

But not only those with such ears can suffer from otitis media. Pets with too much openness ear canal, for example, East European Shepherds are also victims of frequent inflammatory processes. Their hearing organ is not protected from the penetration of pathogenic bacteria.

Why does otitis media develop in dogs?

The primary form of the disease can appear after hypothermia, injury to the animal, due to malnutrition or infection with helminths. There can be many reasons, and if the pet’s immunity is reduced and cannot resist, then the disease affects the dog’s ears.

If we are talking about an infectious pathogen, then most often it is streptococcus or staphylococcus, which develops in a weakened animal’s body.

Signs of otitis media in dogs

The clinical picture of the disease is as follows:

• the pet is restless, as he feels pain in the ear and itching;
• purulent exudate flows from the ear, which has a nauseating odor; the discharge may contain an admixture of blood;
• the pet often tilts its head and shakes its ears;
• the ear canal turns red;
• the ear becomes hot to the touch, this increases the temperature in the affected area;
• tissue swelling occurs in the ear;
• you can feel enlarged lymph nodes from the side of the inflamed organ;
• in a pet;
• the dog is lethargic, does not find a place for itself, and may spin in the direction of the inflamed ear.

During severe forms of otitis in dogs, it is possible following symptoms and complications:

• hearing loss;
• development of strabismus;
• the dog has difficulty eating - it is difficult to chew due to pain;
• discharge of exudate from the eyes.

Diagnosing the disease in dogs

Making a correct, timely diagnosis is half the road to recovery. Veterinarians warn owners not to ignore the pet’s condition and not to treat the disease themselves.

Therapy for otitis media in dogs

Considering the variety of forms and types of the disease, it is difficult not to guess that there is no single treatment for otitis media in dogs. Each variety requires an individual approach:

• Purulent otitis - antibiotic therapy is mandatory; the affected ears are treated with chlorhexidine and hydrogen peroxide.
• Chronic otitis media involves the use of antibiotics, dexamethasone compresses are recommended. Candibiotic drops are also prescribed - a remedy that fights fungi and pathogenic bacteria.
• Fungal otitis - the drug Gaselan 2% is used, the ear is regularly treated with a solution of phosphoric acid.
• Bacterial otitis - for treatment, complex drugs are used that have antifungal and antibacterial effect, for example, a drug in the form of Surolan spray drops.
• Allergic form of otitis - includes a three-month strict period; antipruritic drops are prescribed to eliminate itching. If the allergy is of a constant seasonal nature, you can use antihistamines prescribed by a veterinarian.

The most common antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs include the following:

• Otibiovin;
• Otipax;
• Otofenarol;
• Normax.

For local treatment, camphor oil, aversectin ointment, Dekta are used, and for tick-borne infestations, Amit ointment is used.

To increase and maintain immune system a course of Ascorutin, Vitam, Gamavit and other vitamin preparations is prescribed.

Otipax and Framycetin ear drops have excellent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Treatment of otitis media in dogs at home

• hydrogen peroxide;
• Vaseline oil;
• saline solution.

You can also purchase special lotions for cleaning the animal’s ears for these purposes. If the disease has developed to an advanced stage and in ears crusts have formed on your pet, hydrogen peroxide will help remove them.

Pet owners need to know that ear inflammation is quite difficult to treat, especially in prolonged cases. severe forms. Therefore, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian at the first signs of illness.

Example of otitis media on video:

Preventive measures

The owner must take care of the health of his pet, and therefore prevent the development of various types of diseases. Prevention of otitis involves the following:

• the dog should not be allowed to become hypothermic;
• after bathing, you need to remove excess water using a cotton swab;
• it is worth conducting regular hygiene procedures– daily inspection of the ears and cleaning a couple of times a week;
• it is required to provide, if necessary, supplementing it with vitamin supplements;
• the dog’s contact with other unfamiliar animals should be limited;
• If possible, avoid injury to your pet and stressful situations.

Otitis media can cause the animal to become deaf, and, in addition, cause a number of irreversible consequences. To prevent this from happening, you should carefully monitor your beloved dog and not try to prescribe and carry out therapy yourself.