See the causes and symptoms of otitis in dogs and cats

Otitis is a common disease that can affect cats and dogs of any age. However, she is more frequent in dogs, because of the shape of the ears. According to Valéria Natascha Teixeira, veterinarian and professor of Veterinary Medicine at the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), this is an inflammation of the ear that, in general, causes great discomfort in animals.

causes of otitis

There is no specific cause for otitis – which can affect one or both ears – as it is a disease that can be caused by several factors. The veterinarian explains that among the most common causes are inflammation, bacterial infections, ectoparasites such as scabies, ticks and fly larvae, trauma, neoplasms and foreign bodies.

symptoms of otitis

It is important that the tutor is aware of the signs of otitis in the pet and seeks a veterinarian as soon as they are identified. That’s because, in more serious cases, the disease can cause permanent damage to the ear canal and affect the pet’s overall health.

The most common symptoms are: “pain, discomfort and itching are frequent, and there may also be purulent, bloody discharge and a strong odor. The animal may also become apathetic, unwilling to move. to feed and play”, lists Valéria Natascha Teixeira.

Diagnosis of the disease

The diagnosis of the disease is usually made by the veterinarian, who evaluates the pet during the ear examination and by the clinical signs, as well as the animal’s behavior. “With the suspicion of otitis, samples are collected or tests such as otoscopy, radiography, bacterial culture, cytology, among others, are performed for the precise identification of the causative agent”, says the veterinarian.

Treatment of otitis in dogs and cats

Treat otitis in dogs and cats It is important to ensure the health of the animals and prevent the disease from getting worse. “From the specific diagnosis, the veterinarian will define the drugs for each type of agent, or recommend surgery, if necessary”, explains Valéria Natascha Teixeira.

The duration of treatment may also vary according to the type of agent and the cause of the otitis. According to the veterinarian, the time may change depending on “whether the process is chronic and whether there are perpetuating factors, such as hanging and long ears, the presence of hair inside the duct [auditivo]previous treatments and resistance of microorganisms to drugs”.

Sick animal care

Because of the disease, it is necessary for the tutor to adopt some precautions in order to guarantee the recovery of the animal. After going to the veterinarian, according to Valéria Natascha Teixeira, it is essential to follow all the recommendations prescribed by the professional, how to use medications and other products properly, in the prescribed volume and at the required frequency. “Avoid flies and mosquitoes from landing in the ears using repellents recommended by the veterinarian for each case and carry out proper hygiene [são cuidados essenciais]”, he adds.

preventing otitis

Despite the varied causes of otitis, some simple habits can help prevent dogs and cats get this disease. The first is to be aware of the symptoms, in addition to regularly visiting the veterinarian to assess the health of the animal. Valéria Natascha Teixeira explains that the veterinarian will also indicate hygiene and cleaning practices for each breed and type of ear.