Otitis Externa Treatment in Dogs and Cats – Vet Ear Care Guide for 2025 🧼🐶🐱

Otitis externa—inflammation of the outer ear canal—is a common condition in both dogs and cats. From bacteria to yeast to allergies, many things can cause this painful problem. In this 2025 care guide, Dr Duncan Houston explains the step-by-step process for treating and managing otitis externa in pets to ensure your furry friend gets relief and stays comfortable. 🦻💊

🔍 What Is Otitis Externa?

Otitis externa refers to inflammation or infection of the external ear canal. Causes include:

• 🦠 Bacteria
• 🍞 Yeast
• 🕷️ Ear mites (especially in cats and puppies)
• 🌾 Allergies (environmental or food-related)

Left untreated, this condition can cause pain, hearing loss, and progression into middle or inner ear disease. 👂

✅ Four Key Steps to Treatment

Effective treatment involves a multi-step process:

1. 🧼 Thoroughly clean the ear canal to remove wax and debris
2. 💊 Apply medication directly into the ear
3. 🔁 Follow up with your vet until the infection is fully cleared
4. 🔎 Identify and correct the underlying cause to prevent recurrence

🧴 Ear Cleaning: How To Do It Safely

Cleaning your pet’s ears is the cornerstone of otitis externa management. Here's the recommended method:

1. Apply Ear Cleanser

• Fill the ear canal directly with vet-approved cleanser 🧪
• Or soak a cotton ball and place it in the ear to release the fluid gently

2. Massage the Base of the Ear

Gently massage the base of the ear to help distribute the cleanser throughout the ear canal. You should hear a squishy sound. 👐

3. Wipe Clean

• Use a cotton ball over your finger to remove visible debris and excess liquid
• Let your pet shake its head to expel remaining solution
• Repeat with a dry cotton ball to remove lingering moisture

Do NOT:

• ❌ Insert cotton swabs deep into the ear canal
• ❌ Use alcohol, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide unless directed

💊 Medication Application

Once the ear is clean, apply the prescribed medication:

• Insert the applicator nozzle or dropper tip into the ear canal 💉
• Gently squeeze out the correct dose
• Massage the base of the ear again to help distribute the medication

Some medications contain antifungals, antibiotics, and steroids in a single formula. Others are tailored to specific pathogens. 🧬

🔁 Rechecks Are Critical

Your vet will schedule a re-exam after 7–14 days to confirm the infection is fully resolved. Stopping treatment early can lead to recurrence and resistance. Regular cytology (microscope checks) ensures therapy is working. 🧫📋

🧠 Identifying the Root Cause

If otitis externa keeps coming back, underlying causes must be addressed:

• 🌿 Allergies: The most common cause—may require antihistamines, diet changes, or immunotherapy
• 🦷 Foreign bodies: Like grass awns stuck in the ear
• 🐾 Breed conformation: Dogs with floppy ears (e.g., spaniels) are at higher risk
• 🧪 Hormonal imbalances: Such as hypothyroidism

📆 Treatment Timeline

📌 Special Notes for Cats

Do not clean a cat’s ears unless specifically instructed by your vet. Cats are more sensitive to handling and improper cleaning can cause damage or distress. 🐱⚠️

🐶 Breeds Prone to Otitis Externa

• 🧸 Cocker Spaniels
• 🦮 Labradors and Retrievers
• 🐩 Poodles
• 🐕‍🦺 Bulldogs
• 🐾 Shih Tzus and other hairy-eared breeds

🔁 Preventing Future Infections

• 🧼 Clean ears weekly or as recommended
• 🌊 Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
• 🥗 Address diet and allergies
• 🐾 Trim ear hair in long-haired breeds

📲 When to Contact Ask A Vet

Otitis externa can be painful and frustrating if not treated correctly. If your pet is showing signs of ear irritation, don’t wait. 🐕👂

• 💬 Use the Ask A Vet app for quick consultations
• 📸 Share photos of your pet’s ears
• 📋 Get tailored advice on cleaners, meds, and underlying cause evaluations

Download the Ask A Vet app and get expert help today to stop the itch and protect your pet’s hearing. 🐾💖