Emeryville Animal Hospital

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Emeryville Animal Hospital

106 EmeryDr., Emeryville, ON N0R 1C0
(519) 727 -3304 Fax: (519) 727-3125

Ear Care

Your cats ears should be Clean, odour-free, pale pink in colour and have a minimal accumulation of wax.
Check your pet's ears regularly.

Signs of Ear Disease

Unpleasant odour
Excessive scratching and pawing of the ear and head
Black or yellowish discharge
Accumulation of dark brown wax
Bleeding or discharge resembling coffee grinds
Sensitivity to touch, often resulting in pain
Constant tilting/shaking of the head to one side
Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
Changes in behaviour like listlessness, depression or irritability
Loss of balance or hearing and disorientation

Causes of Ear Disease

Otitis Externa infection of the external ear canal and Otitis Media, infection of the middle ear, are usually caused by ear mites, bacteria or yeast. Other possibilities include injury, debris or a foreign object lodged in the ear canal. When seeking treatment, act quickly. If your cat has an ear infection, he will be in considerable discomfort. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections while antifungals are administered for yeast. Your veterinarian will determine this during your visit and suggest the best course of action.
Ear Mites are common parasites that are highly contagious, often contracted from pet to pet. Excessive itching is the most common sign. Ear mites create dark, crumbly debris that look like coffee grinds.
Hematoma of the Ear Flap means blood has accumulated in the ear flap (pinna). Vigorous head shaking, scratching or trauma to the ear area result in damage to the blood vessels, often set off by infection, mites, fleas or debris.
Deafness, usually brought on by age, trauma, loud noise or infection, can also be hereditary or congenital. Unfortunately, once diagnosed with clinical deafness, it is a lifelong condition.

Prevention

Ear cleaning solution used on an appropriate basis can be helpful in maintaining your cat's ears healthy.

How to Administer Ear Drops or Ointment to Cats

Read the label instructions carefully for correct dosage.
Pull the ear flap over the head, squeeze out the desired amount and apply it to the lowest part of the ear canal.
Gently massage the ear area to help work the medication deeper into the ear canal.

IMPORTANT: Always administer medicine to its full term for it to be effective. When administering medication stay calm - your pet can sense if you are nervous making it more difficult to apply the treatment. Always praise and reward your pet with a treat.

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