The article covers basic information about what this cat health problem is and how it can be dealt with at home, but you need to understand that the article is for informational purposes only and only a veterinarian can help a pet.
Otitis in a cat varieties, symptoms, signs and complications, consequences, contagious to other cats and humans or not
There are three types of otitis in cats: internal (the most difficult), medium and external. Signs of otitis media can be strange pet behavior: head shaking, scratching, refusal to eat. There is also a discharge of pus, redness of the ears, and accumulation of black deposits in the ears.
The consequence of otitis is the destruction of the tissues of the ear and eardrum, which further leads to deafness. Also, the accumulation of pus can go not outside, but inside, which can cause death.
When the question of the transmission of the virus that causes otitis media comes up, we can say that relatively yes, it is transmitted, but only under certain conditions. If cats eat from one bowl or one place of sleep, then infection is quite possible.
In humans, transmission of the disease is very rare. But even with a small percentage of cases, you should protect yourself and children from a close relationship with a cat suffering from otitis media.
Ear otitis media in cats than to drip at home and which antibiotic is effective, folk remedies
Treatment of otitis in cats at different stages is slightly different. If otitis has not yet fully developed and only affects the upper part of the ear, then you can use lotions such as Otifri, rinse the ear, but in no case heat it, this can lead to deafness.
In the middle stage of otitis media, ear rinsing should be only with saline solutions, cleaning is done with swabs, but not with cotton wool, so that particles of cotton wool do not remain in the ear. However, rinsing is not enough, so you need to give drops from inflammation and prevent the spread of infection - Aurikan, Otonazol and others.
Among folk remedies, there are many that will speed up the recovery of a cat from otitis media. Zelenka, boric alcohol, hydrogen peroxide - will perfectly cope with the development of the disease.
Otitis in a cat treatment with otipax, instructions for use, price, reviews, analogues
Otipax - a drug in the form of drops, can be used to treat otitis media in cats. Veterinarians after examining the pet's ear will give precise instructions for the use of the drug. Usually drip 2 drops 2 times a day for 10 days. The price of Otipax reaches 250 rubles.
According to customer reviews, the drug has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, which is important in the treatment of otitis media. It also acts very quickly on the cause and relieves the disease in a short time.
Otipaks has analogues that are suitable in composition: Oticain, Otibryu, ototon and others.
Otitis media in cats: causes and symptoms
As with dogs, otitis media in cats is a fairly common disease. The owners consider this ailment almost harmless, but this is a dangerous delusion. If you do not go to the clinic in time, the cat can lose hearing and even die from meningitis or other complications that affect the brain tissue. In order not to miss the onset of the disease, it is important to know the signs of otitis media in cats. And it is even more important to understand what factors can provoke an inflammatory process in the ear.
The cat's ear, like the human ear, consists of three sections - the outer, middle and inner. The most common and most easily cured is otitis externa, in which only the visible sections of the ear are affected. With otitis media, a cat has less chance of a full recovery, but with proper care and treatment, the prognosis is favorable (without treatment, otitis media is likely to become chronic). Inflammation of the inner ear is the worst option, in which there is a high probability of complete hearing loss, various brain lesions, and other serious complications.
Typical chronic otitis media in cats is periodic pain, seasonal relapses, course treatments and endless prophylaxis. Exhausting pain turns the cat into an aggressive nervous creature, unable to communicate closely in the phase of an exacerbation of the disease. Chronic otitis media can be progressive (malignant) - in such a situation, surgery will be needed, but even surgery does not give a 100% guarantee of recovery. Therefore, the suspicion of ear otitis in cats is a reason for an immediate visit to the clinic. There is no need to buy medicines in pet stores on the advice of friends or a consultant: only a doctor should prescribe treatment, after a deep examination of a mustachioed patient.
Causes of otitis media
In addition to bacteria, the destructive effect on skin cells is fungi. With various mycoses, fungal otitis in cats can be both a complication (for example, trichophytosis) and an independent phenomenon against the background of high sensitivity and low resistance. If a low immune status is established, in addition to specific treatment, immunomodulators and stimulants are used, without which recovery is delayed for months. With a deep lesion by bacteria or fungi, cats often develop purulent otitis media, and the inflammation is localized in the middle ear.
Often the typical symptoms of otitis in cats are observed after hypothermia, especially if the pet got caught in the rain or was ransomed. The ear can become inflamed after the cat has slept on the windowsill or in a room with an open window. Therefore, while bathing, the ears should be protected with cotton swabs, and after the bath, make sure that the pet is not in a draft. Otitis is provoked by many colds and viral diseases that affect the respiratory system.
Injuries- Another obvious cause of otitis media. In cats that have the habit of climbing trees and fighting with fellow tribesmen, the ears are damaged quite often: scratches, lacerations, foreign objects (twigs, thorns, etc.). As a rule, in such cases, the disease begins with local inflammation, gradually affecting all parts of the ear. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect your pet, looking into her ears. Especially if the cat goes outside.
Sometimes otitis media in cats is entirely the fault of the owners. The ears of some cats are constantly dirty with sulfur - this is not a disease, but an individual feature. Ears have to be cleaned, and this should be done regularly. If the sulfur clogs the ear canal, over time, local inflammation will begin, which is hello to otitis media. Some owners show excessive zeal, rubbing their ears to a shine - the cat loses its natural protection, sulfur no longer covers the skin with a thin layer, bacteria and fungi multiply in a favorable environment. In addition, ear otitis in cats develops if sulfur is not properly removed by pushing it inside the ear with a cotton swab: sulfur plugs - local inflammation - chronic otitis media.
Symptoms of otitis media
If the owner is attentive to the pet, it is quite easy to notice the signs of otitis media in cats. At an early stage, the skin looks irritated and reddened, the pet rubs the diseased ear (or ears with bilateral otitis media) with a paw, keeps the ear folded, pressed to the head. After a while, the ear starts to hurt. If the pain is sharp, “shooting”, the cat suddenly jumps up, screams sharply, looks around in fear. If the pain is aching, the cat does not allow to touch the ear, avoids stroking the head, presses the sore ear against the bedding.
Without treatment, otitis media in cats causes more pronounced symptoms:
- scratches, grooves, pimples, sores are noticeable on the skin;
- the cat constantly scratches the ear until it bleeds, shakes its head, does not turn the sore ear to rustle;
- if the facial nerve is damaged, the eyelid, lip or ear may sag, which indicates partial paralysis;
- if purulent otitis develops, in cats it flows from the ear, something squishes and gurgles inside, especially when touched. From the cat, especially from the ear, comes an obsessive unpleasant odor;
- in severe cases, the temperature rises by 1-2 degrees from the norm, the pet loses its appetite, does not want to play and communicate. Many cats become irritable, constantly screaming and meowing.
In some cases, otitis media in cats develops very slowly and with little or no signs of illness: slightly reddened skin, the pet sometimes scratches its ear, sometimes shakes its head, but in general everything is fine. However, the veterinarian must be contacted immediately, as every day the likelihood of perforation of the eardrum increases, which will lead to a decrease or loss of hearing. Do not count on your pet's good health - seek professional help.
Otitis (inflammation of the ear) in cats and cats
Otitis is an inflammatory disease of the ear in cats. Owners often treat this disease lightly, not paying due attention to the treatment of the pet. This is an extremely dangerous delusion, a neglected disease can lead to a chronic process and serious complications, up to inflammation of the brain.
Causes of the disease
The ears of cats are an extremely vulnerable place, therefore, the occurrence of otitis in them is quite common. There are a lot of reasons for the occurrence of the disease, consider the main ones:
The cat's ear consists of three main sections - the outer (outer) ear, middle and inner ear. Based on these anatomical features, several forms of the disease are distinguished:
- Otitis externa - affects the outer part of the ear, the symptoms are usually mild, the most common form of the disease with a good outcome and simple treatment.
- Otitis media - general symptoms of inflammation appear, treatment is complicated, but in most cases the prognosis is favorable.
- Otitis of the inner ear is the most severe form, it often proceeds with complications, the animal's well-being suffers greatly. If you do not turn to the veterinarian in time, even the death of a pet from cerebral edema is possible.
With improper or absent treatment, the acute form can become chronic. It is characterized by a long course with periodic exacerbations. Also, special attention should be paid to careful care and prevention of the cat in order to reduce the risk of exacerbations. Perhaps the malignant development of the disease with the development of a purulent process, in these cases, a surgical operation may be required.
With a regular examination of your pet, it is quite easy to see the signs of otitis media. Manifestations differ in the stages of progression of the disease: initial, peak period, recovery or transition to a chronic form.
At the initial stage, a change in the skin of the auricle is noticeable - it turns red, with the allergic nature of the disease, weeping is possible. Also, a characteristic symptom is acute pain - the cat often lies on a sore ear, does not allow petting on the head, during attacks it can jump up sharply and show anxiety.
At this stage, you should urgently begin therapeutic measures for the animal, if you do not take action, your pet's condition will deteriorate dramatically.
Characteristic manifestations of the peak period:
- Abrasions, scratches and crusts on the skin of the ear.
- Common symptoms of inflammation are loss of appetite, fever, lethargy, apathy.
- Constant pain, the cat becomes aggressive, shakes its head, can comb the affected organ until it bleeds.
Complications
The course of otitis can often be complicated. It is also possible that the disease progresses slowly, which practically does not cause the main symptoms of the disease. This slow development quite often leads to chronic inflammation of the ear.
- Paralysis of the facial nerve - change in facial expressions, sagging lips, eyelids.
- Purulent inflammation - with this complication, an unpleasant odor may come from the cat, fluid begins to stand out from the ear.
- Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain. There is frequent vomiting with a fountain, the animal is in a state of shock, fever.
- Running inflammation can also lead to pet deafness.
Diagnostics
If you suspect otitis media, you can conduct an express diagnosis yourself - just scratch behind the ear of your pet. If there is inflammation, the animal will press the diseased organ to the head and at the same time knock with its hind paw.
In a veterinary clinic, an ear examination is mandatory with the help of a special device - an otoscope. This procedure is the main diagnostic measure, and will allow the doctor to see the full picture of inflammation.
With fungal otitis, a general examination of the cat is carried out in order to recognize the cause of the decrease in immunity, often it can be a chronic inflammation of the internal organs.
If you suspect the development of meningitis, you need to take a puncture of the cerebrospinal fluid.
Before contacting a veterinarian, you can help your pet by conducting local symptomatic therapy. Make sure that the sleeping place of the animal is not in the cold or in a draft, ensure peace. Introduce vitamin-mineral complexes into the cat's diet.
Carefully clean the auricles, it is best to do this with special lotions (for example, Ottifri) or antiseptics (miramistin, chlorhexidine), in their absence, washing with saline is possible.
Cleaning the ear canal should be carried out in two stages:
- Treat the sink with a cotton soaked cotton swab, removing sulfur, blood, pus and hair. If the ear is leaking, wipe the area around the ear as well. The liquid must be warm and not get inside.
- Remove the remaining lotion with a dry bandage.
To relieve pain, you can give the animal painkillers in the form of a suspension of Loxicom.
The rest of the treatment should be carried out only after being examined by a veterinarian and receiving test results. Irrational use of drugs can lead to worsening of the disease. For example, you can not use antibiotic therapy for mycotic inflammation, this will lead to even more reproduction of the fungus.
It is impossible to do warm compresses with purulent otitis media. This will speed up the growth of bacteria!
As a local therapy, ear drops are prescribed - otibiovin, otonazole or aurican. Mandatory antibiotic treatment in the form of injections. Penicillins and cephalosporins are commonly used. The course is carried out for at least 7 days, even in the absence of symptoms of inflammation.
With strong scratching, healing ointments are used - levomekol, iruksovitin.
A severe purulent course requires washing in a veterinary clinic, with a serious blockage, a deep surgical treatment of the ear canal.
Prevention
Regularly clean the auricles, this must be done at least 1 time per month. Provide a warm place for your pet to sleep, avoiding being in a draft.
Be careful when washing - make sure that water does not flow into the ear, you can purchase a special cap or do not wet your head at all.
Conduct preventive examinations of the pet for the presence of inflammatory processes in the internal organs.
Pictures and videos
Picture 1."The anatomical structure of the cat's ear"
Figure 2."Erythema and puffiness in allergic otitis media"
Video 1."Treatment of otitis media in cats and dogs"
One of the most common diseases in veterinary practice is ear inflammation. In fact, otitis in cats is quite dangerous not only for health, but also for the life of the animal. With untimely treatment, the inflammatory process affects not only the ears, but also the meninges, causing meningitis.
Causes of otitis media in cats
Important! More often than others, cats of Scottish and British breeds suffer from otitis media.
- Another cause of otitis media is banal hypothermia or water getting into the ears when bathing. If the cat is wet and cold, has been in a draft for a long time, then it is provided not only with otitis media, but also with viral colds.
- Some cats have a tendency to produce excessive amounts of earwax, which needs to be removed regularly. The owner, neglecting this procedure, dooms his cat to suffering. The ears of the cat must be cleaned properly, without pushing the sulfur inside. This causes the formation of sulfur plugs and chronic otitis media.
A large accumulation of sulfur in the auricle leads to inflammation of the auditory canal and, as a result, to otitis media. But, there is another extreme, when a loving owner cleans his pet's ears too much, depriving him of his natural protection, which allows bacteria to freely enter the ear canal.
Symptoms of otitis media
The first sign of otitis media is itching and restlessness in the affected ear.
How to understand that a cat has otitis media? It is enough just to observe her behavior. After all, the symptoms and treatment depend on the type and stage of development of this disease:
- The first sign of otitis media is redness of the inner surface of the auricle. The cat constantly scratches his ear, rubs it with his paw, tries to scratch himself on protruding pieces of furniture. The animal experiences severe itching, shakes its head and presses its ears.
- In the future, the ear begins to swell, you can notice dry crusts, scratches on it. The cat suffers from severe pain, which can be both sharp, paroxysmal, and constant, aching. It hurts the animal to open its mouth, therefore, it stops eating, avoids the owner, does not allow itself to be petted. There is a slight increase in temperature, general weakness.
- With advanced otitis, the facial nerve may be affected, as a result, the lip or eyelid sags, partial paralysis occurs. With a purulent form of the disease, abundant discharge from the ear is clearly visible, which have a yellowish-green color and an extremely unpleasant odor.
Possible complications of otitis media
A visit to the veterinarian avoids the complications of otitis media.
Sometimes, otitis media can develop almost asymptomatically and painlessly. The cat occasionally scratches its ears and shakes its head, but does not experience much discomfort. It is this course of otitis media that poses the greatest danger. In this case, you should not delay a visit to the doctor, because otitis is fraught with inflammation and rupture of the eardrum and complete hearing loss.
The disease gradually flows into a chronic form and is very difficult to treat. Inflammation of the inner ear, as a rule, ends with meningitis, and purulent otitis media leads to paralysis of the facial muscles and deafness.
Types of ear inflammation
The ear of a cat consists of three parts: outer, middle and inner. Otitis externa is considered the most easily cured disease. It does not cause complications and does not cause much harm to the health of the animal. The inflammatory process affects only the outer part of the auricle, without affecting the auditory canal and the eardrum.
Inflammation of the middle ear is difficult to treat, and often becomes chronic. This is the most common otitis media, in which there is a deep lesion of the eardrum. If you start treatment in a timely manner, you can save the animal from more serious problems.
Discharge from the ear indicates the nature of the inflammation.
Internal otitis is a very dangerous inflammation, leading to hearing loss, brain damage and even death of the animal. It affects the deep sections of the auditory canal, the nervous system and the vestibular apparatus, leading to sepsis and meningitis.
If the cat has only one ear, then this is a common unilateral otitis media. But it also happens that both ears suffer at the same time. Such otitis media is called bilateral, and getting rid of it is not at all easy. In addition, according to the nature of the course of the disease, chronic and acute otitis media are distinguished.
The presence of otitis externa and otitis media is quite simple to diagnose, but inflammation of the inner ear requires a slightly different approach. At the initial stage of the disease, the symptoms of internal otitis are no different from signs of inflammation of the external or middle ear.
In the future, the disease develops, a characteristic feature of which is that the cat walks with its head tilted to one side. When the meninges are affected, paralysis of the facial nerves is observed, the cat cannot swallow and drink water, her eye begins to twitch involuntarily, coordination is disturbed, signs of epilepsy appear.
Otitis externa is diagnosed under general anesthesia.
Treatment of otitis media depending on the type
Before the veterinarian makes a diagnosis and prescribes therapy, symptomatic treatment can be started at home. First, you need to carefully clean the auricle from accumulated secretions with cotton swabs dipped in a slightly warm solution of Chlorhexidine or Miramistin. But the choice of drugs should be entrusted to a professional. After all, the use of certain drugs depends on the cause that caused otitis media and the localization of the inflammatory process.
Drops are the main remedy in the treatment of otitis media.
Purulent otitis. It is necessary to treat such otitis in a cat only in a veterinary clinic. Self-intervention will only aggravate the disease. With a severe lesion, surgery may be required to clear the deep parts of the ear canal from accumulated pus. After such cleaning, the veterinarian prescribes drops from otitis Aurikan, Otonazol, Otospectrin, Amitrazin plus, Otibiovet. In addition, be sure to use antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs, preferably in the form of injections.
Important! Never use warm compresses for purulent otitis, as this will lead to the growth of bacteria.
Fungal attack. Fungal otitis requires a completely different treatment. In this case, you will need special antimycotic ointments or drops. For example, 1% Econazole, Clotrimazole, 1% Amphotericin, which can only be used if the eardrum is intact. Less effective, but also less toxic, are drugs such as Ketoconazole or Salicylic acid. In the treatment of fungal otitis, antibiotics are not prescribed in any case. This can lead to the rapid spread of a fungal infection. Tolnaftat drops, which are used in violation of the integrity of the tympanic membrane, have proven themselves in the treatment of mycotic otitis media. This is an effective drug that helps to quickly get rid of the fungus.
Disease prevention
Prevention of otitis is important for maintaining the health of the pet.
Any disease is easier to prevent than to treat, and otitis media is no exception. To save your pet from possible suffering, it is necessary to regularly clean his ears at least once a month. This must be done very carefully and carefully so as not to damage the auditory canal.
The animal should be protected from hypothermia and drafts. When bathing, make sure that water does not get into the cat's ears. Periodically show the cat to the veterinarian to exclude the presence of inflammatory and viral diseases.
Otitis in cats: symptoms and treatment at home
Otitis media is inflammation of the ear in cats, dogs, and other animals. In cats, inflammation of the outer and middle ear is most common, inflammation of the inner ear is more rare. In a pet, this disease affects either one or both ears at once, a variety of factors can cause otitis media.
Causes of otitis media in cats
Most often in a cat, otitis media occurs as a result of damage to the external ear (for example, from a tick bite, scratches received by pets after a fight with another cat, or even after an allergic reaction to food, shampoo or medicine).
Symptoms of otitis media in cats
Have you noticed that the cat constantly shakes its head or feels pain when touching the head in the ear area? It is quite possible that these are the first signs of otitis media. To have a better understanding of this disease, let's look at the symptoms of otitis media in a cat in more detail.
Otitis in a cat photo.
- the skin of the inner part of the ear is reddened;
- an unpleasant odor comes from the ears;
- there is purulent / bloody discharge;
- periodic deafness;
- it is difficult for a cat to chew dry food (or natural solid food);
- there is discharge from the eyes;
- in case of complications, inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes, the vestibular apparatus, as well as meningitis is observed.
Treatment of otitis media in cats
If your cat has symptoms of otitis media, you should immediately take her to a veterinarian so that he can prescribe treatment depending on the type of otitis media.
- Purulent otitis in a cat. Pus (fluid with an unpleasant odor) flows from the animal's ear. When the advanced phase of purulent otitis occurs in a cat, perforation of the eardrum and ulcerative processes may occur. Antibiotics, chlorhexidine peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are used for treatment.
- Chronic otitis media is a consequence of infection with bacteria of streptococcus, staphylococcus, Escherichia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This type of otitis must be treated according to the guidance and under the supervision of a veterinarian. Antibiotics, compresses with dexamethasone, Candibiotic drops are used for treatment.
- Otitis externa in cats- these are diseases of the external ear, a sign of which is a bacterial-fungal infection of the ear canal or inflammation of the hair follicle, which are accompanied by itching, eczema and swelling. Vetzim drops are used as a treatment.
- Fungal otitis media in cats also known as otomycosis. It can be not only independent, but also a secondary disease. Due to inflammation, the skin loses its protective properties, as a result, the fungus provokes an infection and otitis media occurs. First there is severe itching, then a large amount of sulfur, then the ear turns red - this is the beginning of inflammation. It may be followed by swelling, discharge of pus, an unpleasant odor. For the treatment of fungal otitis, a solution of phosphoric acid is used (the ear is treated with it) and the drug Gaselan 2%.
- Bacterial otitis media in cats- he meets quite often, can affect both or only one ear. It is accompanied by itching, purulent discharge, redness and an unpleasant odor. With bacterial otitis, Surolan drops are used for treatment.
- Allergic otitis media in cats- this disease of the auricle is the result of an allergic reaction, but can also be caused by hormonal imbalance. A lot of ear wax is released, itching appears. For treatment, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the allergy.
How to properly clean the ears of a dog (part of the prevention of otitis media):
In the case of long-term treatment and the absence of visible results, the medicines were probably chosen incorrectly, which is why the treatment is not effective. Remember that although otitis media for cats can be found in any veterinary pharmacy, it is better that it be prescribed by a doctor after examining the animal.
Once again, we note that the treatment of otitis should be prescribed by a veterinarian who will confirm the signs of otitis media in a cat. The prescribed drugs can be used already at home according to the instructions indicated for them. And if it is not possible to get to the doctor immediately after the symptoms are detected, you can try to help your pet as follows:
- treat the cat's ear with a solution of miramistin or chlorhexidine (the solution is applied to a gauze swab and it is already processed).
- remove sulfur from the ear using an exudate solution (sold in pet stores).
- using a clean cotton swab dipped in boiled water, remove the discharge and crusts. If the auditory opening is clogged, clean it with saline using the douching method.
- after these procedures, ear drops for cats against otitis should be applied (for example, Otinum, Otipax, Sofradex, Anandin plus). How many times to drip a particular product, see the instructions for it.
If after a couple of days after treatment there is no improvement, you need to try other drops, but it is better to visit a veterinary clinic. After all, chronic otitis is treated much longer and harder, so it is better to avoid complications.
Effective treatment for otitis media in cats
Middle ear disease in domestic cats is called otitis media. This is a widespread pathology of the hearing organs. Owners do not always understand the danger of the disease, believing that the disease is easily curable. Such carelessness often leads to relapses, the transition of the disease to a chronic form, and hearing loss in a pet.
Knowing the causes of the disease, symptoms and signs of inflammation in the ear will allow you to immediately seek qualified help and start treatment in a timely manner.
Causes of otitis media in cats
In modern veterinary medicine, inflammatory phenomena of the outer, middle and inner ear are well studied, which makes it possible to identify the following causes of the development of pathology:
Allergic otitis media
- Bacterial, viral, fungal infections. Microorganisms are the cause of not only local inflammation of the tissues of the auricle, but also lead to a general reaction of the body in the form of fever, intoxication.
- Injuries, foreign bodies entering the ear canal. Free-range cats often get injured while climbing trees, in fights with relatives, dogs. The wound surface is an excellent environment for the development of viruses and bacteria and, as a result, the occurrence of an inflammatory reaction.
Otitis externa. The seed of a plant adjacent to the eardrum
- Irregular hygiene of the ear canal. Some pets are prone to increased sulfur formation, which must be removed periodically. Neglect of this hygiene procedure leads to the accumulation of sulfur in the ear canal, infection with microorganisms and the development of inflammation.
- Often the cause of otitis media is autoimmune diseases.
Predisposing factors that provoke inflammation in the ear canal of cats are:
- hypothermia of the body, drafts;
- water getting into the ears when swimming;
- low level of immunity, reduced resistance to infections.
Owners of furry pets should also be aware that some breeds of cats have a genetic predisposition to ear infections. Most often, the disease is observed in representatives of the British and Scottish Fold breeds.
Learn more about how to treat pneumonia in cats here.
Symptoms of otitis in a cat
Inflammatory phenomena in the ear canal have characteristic features that will not hide from the attention of the observant owner:
Animal anxiety. The cat often rubs the sore ear with its paw, tries to scratch it on objects (furniture, legs of household members). A sick pet constantly shakes his head. Sometimes the owner can observe how the animal tilts its head towards the pathological process, walks with a twisted neck. Scratching the ear with paws can be bloody due to severe itching.
The intensity of the manifestation of certain symptoms largely depends on the severity of the infection, the resistance of the pet's body and the type of inflammation in the ear canal.
Types of ear inflammation
Specialists in the field of veterinary medicine in domestic cats distinguish between inflammation of the outer, middle and inner ear. Such a classification is based on the anatomical structure of the organ of hearing and the involvement of certain components of the organ in the pathological process.
Otitis externa is the easiest and most quickly eliminated type of inflammatory phenomenon. In this case, tissue damage is observed in the visible parts of the ear, without spreading to the eardrum.
Otitis media- a widespread type of disease in which the eardrum is affected. This type of inflammation often becomes chronic. With proper treatment, inflammation of the middle ear has a favorable prognosis.
The most severe and dangerous form of the disease for a pet is inflammation of the inner ear. The lesion affects not only the eardrum, but also passes to the vestibular apparatus. Internal otitis is often the cause of acquired deafness of the animal. Inflammation of a purulent nature is dangerous by the transition to the meninges and the development of sepsis.
Otitis media can also be unilateral or bilateral. In the first case, one ear is affected, in the second, inflammation is observed in both ears.
Bilateral otitis due to food allergy
According to the nature of the development of the process, veterinary specialists distinguish between acute and chronic otitis media.
Diagnosis of otitis media
Inflammation of the inner ear, in contrast to the pathology of the outer and middle sections, is characterized by more severe clinical manifestations. In the early stages, the symptoms differ little from external and otitis media. As the disease progresses, signs characteristic of inflammation of the inner ear are observed.
The sick animal sits with its head bowed. Pathology of the facial nerve develops. A sick cat has blepharospasm, distortion of the muzzle. Due to paralysis of the facial nerve, a sick pet often develops problems with swallowing, quenching thirst.
The development of such a sign as nystagmus (involuntary trembling of the eyeball) indicates brain damage. Nystagmus can be observed both horizontally and vertically. The fact that the brain is involved in the inflammatory process is indicated by nervous symptoms: impaired coordination of movement, epileptic seizures, a cat bumping into objects.
The veterinary specialist establishes the diagnosis based on the anamnesis, characteristic symptoms, otoscopy, laboratory diagnostics. In some cases, the doctor will prescribe a biochemical and general blood test.
Otoscopy - examination of the ear canal with a special device, usually performed after anesthesia. Manipulation allows you to determine the integrity of the tympanic membrane, to detect the presence of foreign bodies, neoplasms, inflammation.
In addition to endoscopic examination, a smear taken for bacterial culture is used to make a diagnosis. This procedure also allows you to determine the sensitivity of pathogenic microflora to antibacterial agents.
Treatment of otitis in cats depending on the type
Therapeutic measures for any form of otitis media should not be carried out independently. Treatment should be prescribed by a veterinarian, taking into account the form and severity of the pathological process. As a rule, the treatment of inflammation of the ear canal is complex.
First of all, treatment begins with the removal of impurities and cleansing the ear canal from exudate, crusts, dirt, etc. Do this with gauze wipes soaked in a disinfectant solution. As a home antiseptic 
fit:
- 3% boric acid;
- chlorhexidine solution;
- 3% hydrogen peroxide;
- furacilin solution;
- miramistin solution.
In severe purulent inflammation in a specialized clinic, a deep surgical cleaning of the ear canal from purulent masses is carried out.
After cleansing the affected ear from dirt and exudate, treatment with drugs prescribed by a veterinarian can be carried out.
As ear drops in the treatment of otitis in animals, medications such as Sofradex, Dexamethasone are prescribed. Of the veterinary drugs used in cats, Aurikan, Uricin, Surolan, Anandin, Otibiovet, Tsiprovet, Tsipam, Otovedin.
For information on how and how to treat otitis media in cats, see this video:
Purulent otitis media
With a purulent form of otitis media, the pathogenic microorganism that led to the development of the disease is taken into account. If the inflammation is of a bacterial nature, then the sick animal is prescribed antimicrobial therapy.
Cephalosporins, macrolides, and penicillin antibiotics are effective as antibacterial agents. Before using antibacterial drugs, it is necessary to conduct a sensitivity test.
A good result is the use of amoxiclav, ampicillin, amoxicillin - antibiotics of the penicillin group. The most commonly used cephalosporins are cefazolin, ceftriaxone, and cefixime.
Of the macrolides for otitis in cats, erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin, spiramycin are effective. The dosage, as well as the duration of the course of antibiotic therapy, is determined by the veterinarian in each case.
With a pronounced pain syndrome, the pet is prescribed painkillers or a novocaine blockade is performed. Recovery comes faster with the use of immunomodulators and vitamin complexes. As drugs that enhance the protective properties of the body, the following are used: nucleopeptide, gamapren, glycopin, salmosan.
Immunomodulators
fungal infection
Treatment of the fungal form of otitis media (otomycosis), in addition to hygiene procedures, involves the use of specific agents aimed at combating mycoses. Antifungal ointments based on nystatin have a good therapeutic effect: Panolog, Oridermil, Clotirmazol, Nystatin. In addition to local treatment, the same antifungal and antibacterial drugs of general action are used: Amphotericin, Ketoconazole, Amoxicillin.
Otomycosis in a cat
The best effect is achieved when carrying out the sowing of pathological material for sensitivity to antifungal drugs.
In the treatment of any form of otitis, it is important to provide the sick pet with the appropriate conditions: a dry and warm room without drafts, peace, and the absence of stressful situations.
And here is more about how to clean your ears at home.
Prevention of otitis media
To prevent the development of otitis media of various etiologies, the following recommendations of veterinarians will help the owner of a fluffy pet:
- prevent hypothermia, stay of the cat in damp rooms with drafts;
- regularly clean the ears from dirt and accumulations of sulfur;
- periodically check the pet's ears for abrasions, scratches, redness, etc.;
- while swimming, do not allow water to enter the ears;
- limit the free range of the animal;
- conduct regular disinfection of the premises, animal care items.
Otitis in domestic cats is an insidious disease. If you do not seek veterinary help in time, there is a risk of developing not only deafness in the animal, but also serious health problems and even a threat to life. It is strictly forbidden to independently diagnose and treat inflammatory processes in the ear canal in animals. Treatment should be prescribed only after a professional examination.
To learn how to properly clean the ears of a cat, see this video:
Otitis in cats - symptoms and treatment
Otitis in cats occurs quite often and is not a fatal disease if treated in time and eliminated. It is an inflammatory process in one of the ear sections, which provokes pain and tingling inside. This disease exists in three forms, each of which has its own specific features and methods of treatment:
- External - is the most harmless and easily eliminated, since the disease has time to affect only the visible parts of the ear;
- Medium - more often than others, it flows into chronic otitis media, since the inflammation falls below and manages to hit the eardrum;
- Internal - is considered dangerous and critical for the condition of the cat. With this form, the animal almost in all cases loses its hearing and receives a number of additional complications. The infection penetrates the brain and causes irreversible consequences.
Causes of otitis media in cats
An animal can get sick in an extremely unexpected way. Many owners are mistaken, thinking that otitis media in cats can only occur with hypothermia or colds. This ailment has a fairly large range of reasons due to which its occurrence occurs. The auricles of a cat are a vulnerable and easily accessible place, so foreign objects and insects play a huge role in the formation of the disease.
The following are the main causes of this disease:
A substance or object to which an animal is allergic can easily and quickly provoke the development of an ear disease. A similar phenomenon occurs due to the fact that allergen bacteria, entering the cat's body, completely change the environment in all possible parts of the body. This also includes the ear section. So, an allergic reaction can cause inflammation.
Any damage to the ears from tree branches, tough plants and thorns is easily inflamed and becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Such scratches and wounds quickly begin to rot, heal poorly and are a real threat to the health of the ears.
Fungi and other bacteria thrive in moist, damp environments. The ear, which has undergone any damage and irritation, is an excellent haven for microorganisms. Having multiplied in sufficient quantities, the bacteria easily overcome the protective barriers of the ear and begin to descend to the eardrum and beyond.
Damage from sharp, cutting objects also causes irritation. They can disturb the animal, leading to scratching and more damage. The wound does not heal and as a result, otitis media begins to form.
Some varieties of cats suffer from excessive earwax production. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that the sulfur does not clog the ears and does not cause inflammation. Strong secretions of earwax are removed with cotton pads soaked in boiled water.
Disruptions in hormonal balance cause serious problems with the skin, ears and eyes. If such problems are not eliminated in time, they can begin to progress more seriously.
Symptoms of otitis in a cat
The symptomatic signs of this disease are quite easily distinguishable. It is virtually impossible to confuse it with another disease or allergy. But for inexperienced owners or those who have never encountered this scourge, the following information may be useful:
- The animal tries to scratch the sore ear, over time, scratching and redness become visible on it;
- Characterized by the presence of shooting or aching pain, the pet avoids contact with the owner, does not allow himself to be stroked on the head;
- With more complicated otitis media, ulcers and swelling appear;
- Possible presence of temperature;
- Often there are purulent discharge, there is an unpleasant smell from the ears;
- The animal becomes restless, can jump up abruptly and look frightened;
- It is possible to refuse food, ignoring treats.
Treatment of otitis media in cats
Diagnosis of this disease and its treatment are carried out exclusively under the guidance of a veterinarian. Such measures are necessary, since only a doctor can determine the stage of the disease and its magnitude. With independent and home treatment, it is possible to aggravate the course of the disease, which can provoke the appearance of meningitis and further death.
The veterinarian prescribes an individual course of treatment for each pet. The main task of treatment is to suppress inflammation and get rid of harmful microorganisms that constantly multiply and complicate the treatment process.
With a mild form of this ailment, the owner needs to develop a special schedule according to which the ears will be cleaned and processed. So, with superficial damage to the ears, rinsing with furatsilin and hydrogen peroxide 3% is prescribed.
With otitis media of the middle ear, the doctor resorts to prescribing antibiotics and drugs that relieve inflammation of the ears in cats. If the animal experiences pain, then painkillers are almost always prescribed.
With a complex form of the disease, a whole complex is prescribed, which is focused not only on curing the cat, but also on saving his life. It is most likely that the animal will become deaf after treatment, as the eardrum and ear canal will be effectively destroyed. In such complex cases, several courses of antibiotic therapy and ear treatment with special solutions are prescribed.
Also, the owner of the animal should take into account that during the period of treatment the cat must be provided with complete rest and rest. Emphasis should be placed on easily digestible food, which will be enriched with vitamins and minerals. This will help the exhausted body to recover faster and bounce back.
Prevention
Prevention of otitis and other ear diseases does not include any complex activities and actions. The owner of the cat just needs to keep it clean and clean the ears several times a month with cotton swabs or napkins soaked in the solution.
If possible, you should not allow the animal to be on a constant walk, as this threatens not only with infection with otitis media, but also with other dangerous diseases.
Any manifestations of this disease become immediately noticeable. You can easily detect dirt-blackened ears or an unpleasant smell that comes from the canal. Such symptoms should not be ignored. So, you risk depriving your pet of a full life.
Timely contacting the veterinary clinic will help to provide timely assistance to the pet and save his hearing. Maintaining good hygiene and following a proper diet will keep your pet happy and healthy.
Symptoms of otitis in cats and its treatment at home
Inflammation of the ears in cats (otitis media) is a fairly common phenomenon. It causes a lot of suffering to the animal, and in especially severe cases leads to the development of a severe disease - meningoencephalitis.
Most often, cats have otitis externa. The disease begins with inflammation of the mucous membrane of the organ. Then the tissues of the middle ear are damaged, pus is released. The disease occurs in two forms: acute and chronic. In acute inflammation, perforation of the eardrum can occur, hearing acuity decreases and complete deafness occurs.
Various factors can provoke the development of otitis media in cats. The main reasons are:
- damage to the integrity of the eardrum resulting from trauma or ear scratching;
- transmission of infection from the pharynx;
- ingress of foreign objects - insects, thorns and others;
- tick infestations;
- accumulation of sulfur in the ear canal;
- cold water in the ear
- bacterial and fungal diseases;
- skin pathologies - eczema, boils, dermatitis.
Inflammation of the ear in a cat can manifest itself as a secondary disease against the background of infectious diseases: rhinitis, pharyngitis and others. The risk of developing otitis media increases in the presence of predisposing factors. They can be: violations of air exchange in the auricle and high humidity, the presence of a narrow ear canal and abundant hairline, the animal's tendency to allergic diseases, as well as endocrine and immune diseases (lack of thyroid hormones, pemphigus, discoid and systemic lupus erythematosus).
Otitis media in cats most often occurs due to an infectious disease of the external ear and when the eardrum is injured. If timely treatment is not carried out, the inflammation passes to the inner ear.
Otitis in cats is accompanied by severe itching, the animal scratches the sore spot, tilts its head. There are symptoms such as:
- redness of the ear and parotid region;
- hair loss;
- violation of the integrity of the skin, its thickening and coarsening;
- discharge from the ear;
- copious outflow of pus (in case of damage to the eardrum);
- ulcers inside the auricle;
- the formation of crusts;
- in the case of a purulent form of the disease, the body temperature rises;
- with inflammation of the inner ear, coordination of movements is disturbed, the cat spins in place, falls;
- the animal becomes lethargic, appetite worsens, vomiting opens;
- in severe cases, paralysis of the facial nerve may occur - on the side of the diseased ear, the lip will be distorted.
When the last four symptoms appear, the cat must be immediately shown to the veterinarian, as a serious complication, meningoencephalitis, may develop.
Discharge from the ear that appears with otitis media is different. By their appearance, you can determine the type of infection:
When you press the base of the ear shell in a cat, you can hear a characteristic squelching. With a long course of the inflammatory process, the ear canal narrows, and benign formations appear on the affected areas.
Before treatment, you need to carefully remove the formed crusts and pus, carefully trim the hair inside the ear. Crusts can be softened with:
- warm boiled water;
- 3% salt solution (30 g per 1 liter of boiled water);
- the drug Epacid-alpha (a cotton swab is moistened with 1-1.5 ml of the solution);
- special ear lotions.
Then you should make an antiseptic treatment. To do this, the cat's ear is wiped with a cotton swab moistened with a 3% solution of boric or salicylic acid. You can also use the drug Aurikan and solutions of hydrogen peroxide, Iodez, Chlorhexidine, Povidone-iodide.
Ear drops Aurikan with otitis media have a complex effect - antibacterial, antiseptic, insecticidal and anti-inflammatory. The drug is used not only to treat inflammation of the ears in cats, but also to prevent the disease, as well as during hygiene procedures. In cats, it is instilled 5 drops into the ear canal. After that, the auricle is massaged with light circular movements. Daily instillation is performed during the first week. Then the number of treatments is reduced. Over the next month, the medicine is dripped twice a week.
If the inflammation is severe, then after drying the cleaned ear, 0.5% prednisolone ointment can be applied. The drug has antisecretory and anti-edematous action. It is the main treatment for allergic otitis media in cats. Ulcerative lesions are lubricated with Otodepin or Pichtoin ointment.
Otodepin ear drops should be instilled 2 times a day. This tool should be lubricated and the entire ear. Treatment is carried out for 5-7 days. If the animal is prone to otitis, then preventive treatment should be done every day.
In the treatment of pathology associated with infection with fungi and gram-negative bacteria (chlamydia, proteus, enterobacteria), acidification of the ear surface helps with the following means:
- chlorhexidine;
- povidone iodide;
- lactic, salicylic, boric acid;
- 2% solution of acetic acid, which also affects gram-positive staphylococci.
Local antifungal treatment of otitis in cats is carried out using Imidazole and Amphotericin B ointments. They are treated 1-2 times a day, the total duration of therapy lasts 10 days.
For antimicrobial treatment of the surface of the ear, it is recommended to use universal antibacterial agents: Chloramphenicol, a mixture of powders of penicillin, streptocide and synthomycin, Sofradex (2-3 drops, 3-4 times a day, duration of treatment 2-3 days).
As a general strengthening and maintenance therapy, it is advisable to use Gamavit at a dosage of 0.4 ml / kg of body weight. The remedy is recommended to be given to cats 2 times a day for 3-5 days.
Since it is difficult to establish the exact cause of otitis in cats at home, it is recommended to treat it in combination with anti-tick drugs: Bars, Amit, Otovedin, Dekta, Decor-2 and others.
If the disease does not respond to traditional methods of treatment, then the animal must be taken to the veterinarian. The specialist will prescribe antibiotics and antifungal drugs of systemic action.
Otitis media in cats
Otitis media is a common inflammatory process that takes place in the auricle, affecting both the outer layers and the inner part. Without proper attention, it can lead to death.
Diseases of the auditory organs in pets are quite common. In the initial stages, many owners may not notice or pay attention to the strange behavior of their pets. If possible, you should take the animal to a veterinary clinic and conduct a medical examination of the pet for an ear disease. Read more about diarrhea in cats here.
In the case of diagnosing otitis media in the chronic stages, it is imperative that all the prescriptions of the veterinarian be followed, otherwise there is a high probability of hearing loss, and, as a maximum, the death of the animal if the brain tissue is affected. That is why it is so important for any symptoms of the disease to contact a veterinary clinic.
- external (damage to the visible part, the mildest form, it is quickly treated with timely contact with the clinic);
- middle ear (more complex treatment, but the chances of recovery are high, very often it becomes chronic);
- inner ear (high probability of complete hearing loss, difficult to treat).
Causes of otitis media
There are several reasons for the onset and development of the disease:
In addition, otitis media may not be an independent disease, but a secondary symptom. For example, with ear mites.
Symptoms of the disease
In the initial stages of the disease with otitis, the pet begins to clearly protect the ear. The head is often tilted to the side, towards the side of the lesion, perhaps regular shaking. In general, the animal looks restless. Since itching appears, the pet begins to comb the affected area, which leads to a worsening of the situation and further damage to the rest of the ear.
Most often, the temperature rises locally, which is easily determined by hand. In addition, the site of manifestation of otitis becomes painful, which can lead to a change in the animal's mood for the worse (aggression). Without proper treatment, the disease quickly progresses to the next stage and can become chronic.
In more serious and severe forms of the disease, purulent discharge from the ear and an unpleasant odor are observed, redness or swelling in the ear canal is often formed. If, as a result of the disease, the facial or ocular nerves are affected, then the cat's lip sags, the eyelid drops.
You can also see the general painful and irritated condition of the pet, he loses his appetite. In the case of a severe lesion, there may be a violation of coordination of movement, prolapse of the third eyelid, fever.
If the situation worsens, a rupture of the eardrum is not ruled out, which means the complete deafness of the pet. It is painful for the animal to open its mouth, it vomits, asymmetry of the pupils can be observed. Further development of the disease can lead to the death of the pet.
Since the primary stage of the disease sometimes proceeds without obvious manifestations (the initial symptoms are not always visible immediately), and the consequences are very severe, that is why it is so important to start treatment on time.
Diagnosis of the disease
With early and timely treatment, the diagnosis can be made on the basis of the overall clinical picture, taking into account the observations of the owner, by conducting a general examination and otoscopy. In the process, purulent discharge, inflammation and swelling inside the ear are revealed. Very often, with mild diseases, already at this stage, veterinarians determine the cause and prescribe appropriate drugs.
But in the case of damage to the middle ear, a cytological smear is also taken to more accurately identify the causes of inflammation, assess its degree and select the correct treatment. The delivery of such an analysis can be carried out more than once, until the complete elimination of ambiguities.
It should be remembered that otitis media is not always an independent disease. It can be a secondary sign or hide under another disease.
For example, when a veterinarian suspects demodicosis over otitis in a cat, a scraping is taken and trichoscopy is performed - an examination of hair and skin particles. In the case of a very advanced disease, video otoscopy is also performed under general anesthesia. Sometimes x-rays may be prescribed, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is much more effective and informative.
Not only the ear area is examined, but also the nasopharynx, as they are interconnected. Prior to the appointment of treatment, urine and blood tests are also taken, and an antibiotic sensitivity test is performed.
Treatment of otitis media
Even before a proper diagnosis is made, you can help your pet. First you need to clean the ears from accumulations of pus and sulfur. This can be done with a solution of chlorhexidine, miramistin, homeopathic ear cleaning lotions (with calendula, green tea), special drops for hygiene care that do not contain drugs (Bars, Otifri, Harts).
To remove excess, you can use napkins, ear sticks or cotton pads. Be sure to wet the auricle with a dry cotton swab or disc after treatment.
Depending on the degree of the disease and the severity of the course, drugs are prescribed. Most often, these are veterinary brands: Otospectrin, Otoferonol Gold, Aversectin Ointment, Amitrazin Plus and more. But drugs can also be prescribed from a pharmacy for people: Anauran; Garazon; Sofradex; Otipax; Polydex; Dexon; Otinum; Fugentin; Otofa; Tsipromed; Normaks and more.
The prescribed drugs are required to be used in a course that is approximately ten days. Individually can appoint up to two weeks. If after a while there are no changes for the better, then a stronger drug may be prescribed or antibiotics may be prescribed. Most often macrolides, cephalosporins, penicillins. It is mandatory to complete the entire course, even if the improvement occurs after the first injections.
In cases of allergic reactions or when otitis media itself is a symptom of an allergy, antihistamines are prescribed.
At advanced stages, when severe itching and soreness are observed, severe scratching in the ear area, then antimicrobial, antifungal, regenerating and wound healing agents are present in the prescriptions of the veterinarian.
Very often, Surolan is used for this in the form of a suspension, which contains everything you need. But other drugs are also possible. If the cat does not stop scratching the ears, then an Elizabethan protective collar is applied and antipruritic drugs are additionally prescribed.
Disease prevention
Prevention is not difficult and boils down to the following:
- clean your pet's ears regularly;
- do not leave the cat in a draft and make sure that it does not get cold;
- make sure that water does not get into the ears while swimming.
Do not self-medicate, as this can lead to a worsening of the situation. Only a specialist will be able to correctly determine whether your cat has otitis media, whether it is hidden by other diseases.
In addition, the initial symptoms of otitis media are very similar to those of an ear mite, and if you make a mistake using the wrong drugs, you can seriously injure your pet.
Otitis in a cat: symptoms, treatment, causes, how to properly clean the ears
Otitis media is a common disease in cats. These animals are more prone to the development of meningitis and deafness due to long-term developing inflammatory processes in the ears, so it is important not only to be able to recognize the onset of otitis media in cats (symptoms), but also to be able to prevent this condition.
Feline otitis: general information and causes
The hearing organ of a mustachioed pet consists of 3 sections - the outer ear, middle and inner. According to the inflammation of a particular department, there is also a classification of inflammations.
Most often, external otitis occurs - it is cured most easily, relatively quickly and mostly without complications. But with a belated appeal to the veterinarian or improper treatment, inflammation easily passes into the internal sections. 
With otitis media, recovery occurs without complications only with timely diagnosis and proper treatment. Deep otitis or otitis of the inner ear is the most dangerous pathology that has the most consequences and complications (deafness and meningitis), not excluding cases of death.
Otitis affects cats of all breeds and ages. There is no particular breed predisposition, but there is a high frequency of cases in old and weakened animals.
The factors provoking otitis media are divided into:
This name of pathogens, while maintaining the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes of the ears, does not provoke otitis by itself. They significantly complicate their course, changing the clinical picture and significantly lengthening the treatment. Otitis media and internal are not always the result of external complication. There are a number of completely independent reasons that provoke inflammation of the internal sections directly.
Causes of medium and deep otitis media:
- Temporal bone injury or other parts of the skull near the ear canal.
- Perforation of the tympanic membrane due to external factors (strike, loud sound), and in the form of a complication of external otitis media.
- Cancer growths with penetration into the ear.
In cats, the vertical and horizontal canals of the ear canal are almost on the same straight line, so any pathological discharge during inflammation easily drains to the eardrum. With purulent otitis, its perforation (rupture or dissolution) is observed, through the opening of which pus and other fluids can enter the head, affecting the brain. In addition to deafness, meningitis (inflammation of the meninges) can develop, in especially severe cases, the animal can die.
Signs of ear disease
The very first sign that something is wrong with the ears of a pet is the increased interest of the cat in the ears: she strokes them, scratches them, slightly covers them and tilts her head slightly towards the affected ear.
These signs indicate otitis externa, and this is already a good reason to go to a veterinary clinic!
With otitis media and internal otitis observed:
- soreness of the ears (sometimes does not even allow to touch);
- an increase not only in local temperature, but also in general;
- with a long purulent process, signs of general intoxication - general depression, lack of appetite, vomiting;
- the head is tilted towards the affected ear, slightly bent, the cat often shakes its head and at the same time meows;
- obvious purulent outflows from the ear (especially if the integrity of the eardrum is damaged), a squelching sound is possible when massaging;
- sagging of the eyelid and lips on the affected side, if the facial nerve is affected by inflammation;
- in especially protracted cases - purulent dissolution of the ear cartilage and auditory ossicles;
- sharp jumps of a cat and fright with unexpected painful backaches.
When the disease passes into the chronic stage, the clinic may not be so obvious:
- pet anxiety from recurring pain;
- thickening of the skin around the entrance to the hearing aid, as well as near the auditory membrane (visible only during instrumental examination with an otoscope).
Specific symptoms:
- allergic otitis media are accompanied by hypersensitivity reactions in other parts of the body (urticaria, itching, swelling, etc.);
- with otitis media caused by ear mites, dirty brown discharge is noted, after cleansing of which bleeding ulcers and wounds may remain. Usually both ears get sick at once;
- with otitis media provoked by the presence of excess moisture in the ear canal, the discharge will always be of a liquid consistency, regardless of their characteristics (clear or cloudy, serous or purulent);
- fungal and bacterial otitis often have a dirty yellow discharge with a specific odor. Ears are hot. The diagnosis is made on the basis of laboratory cultures, when specific pathogens of the inflammatory process are isolated;
- with otitis caused by excessive hairiness, hair is found deep in the ear canal. Before starting treatment, the hairs are removed;
- - with tumor inflammation or due to the ingress of foreign objects, the examination reveals immediate causes - in fact, neoplasms and foreign elements. Usually found during examination using an otoscope.
Photo of otitis in a cat
Treatment of otitis in cats at home
Self-treatment using "some kind of otitis media" purchased independently in veterinary pharmacies can lead to irreversible consequences, therefore it is prohibited. You can treat ear inflammation at home only with drugs prescribed by a veterinarian. Improper therapy of otitis media easily translates their course into a chronic form.
Chronic otitis media is intermittent pain, constant relapses, repeated courses of medical therapy and non-stop preventive measures. At the moment of exacerbation, the disease turns a kind and affectionate pet into an aggressive animal, often not even given into hands. This form of otitis media always progresses and in the most advanced cases sometimes requires surgical intervention, which is not a fact that will help. If there is any suspicion that the cat has problems with the ears, it makes sense to immediately take it to the veterinarian.
What can be done at home:
- carefully examine the ears, determine if pain is present;
- gently remove (cut) excess hair from the ear canal;
- wash with a cotton swab moistened with hydrogen peroxide, the auricle, soak the existing crusts. Lubricate the wounds with wound healing antimicrobial ointments or a solution of brilliant green;
- drip 2-3 drops of Otinum or Otipax preparations: preparations from a human pharmacy with antipruritic and analgesic effects to eliminate possible discomfort in the animal;
- gently clean the inside of the ears with a solution of boric acid or furacilin. Excess moisture is wiped off with gauze or soaked with loose cotton swabs;
- drip anti-inflammatory ear drops prescribed by the veterinarian for cats.
What can not be done!
- Trying to clean the ears of an animal if you have never done it before!
- It is strictly forbidden to self-medicate!
- You can’t clean the cat’s ear canal without anesthesia with obvious signs of pain (a single pain is enough to ensure that it is not given in the future to examine the ears and treat them).
- It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide to clean the ears, because. it causes noise during the formation of oxygen foam, which will frighten the animal. This solution is only suitable for external treatment of the auricles.
- You can not warm the affected ears.
We clean our ears properly
It is better to clean the ears of a cat together, so that the assistant holds the animal for easy access to the one who will clean it. If there is no assistant, you will have to fix the animal by wrapping it in a thick terry towel or blanket.
The diagnosis of ear inflammation is made on the basis of a clinical examination using an otoscope and laboratory tests of the contents from the hearing organs to determine the cause and specifics of the disease. In special cases, x-rays may be needed, as well as urine and blood tests and, in some cases, an antibiogram (to determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to certain antimicrobials).
Treatment of otitis has some features, depending on the reasons that caused it:
- in case of inflammation provoked by ticks, acaricidal (from ear mites) agents are preliminarily prescribed;
- when a fungus is found in the ears of a cat, ear fungicides (antifungal drugs) are used;
- bacterial and purulent otitis media require treatment with systemic antibiotics and antimicrobial drops at the same time;
- in especially advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary - an artificial puncture of the tympanic membrane, deep cleaning and intensive antibiotic therapy;
- otitis media caused by allergies or hormonal abnormalities in the body are usually treated with antihistamines and corticosteroids.
List of drugs used to treat otitis media in cats
In the treatment of ear inflammation, the following drugs are most often used:
Otitis media in a cat
Many animals kept at home have diseases that humans suffer from, including ear diseases. The most common disease among ear diseases is otitis media in cats, which, if not properly treated or misdiagnosed, can lead to serious problems, including deafness or, even worse, death.
Types of otitis media
Types of ear disease in cats directly depend on the structure of her ear, are divided according to the localization of the disease in different ear sections.
- Otitis externa in cats is one of the least dangerous types of the disease, because it affects only the outer, that is, the visible part of the ear.
- Otitis media - inflammation of the eardrum and the entire contents of the middle ear is affected. This type of otitis media is more likely than others to take a chronic form.
- Internal otitis media is the most dangerous type of the disease, it can take critical forms, often leading to complete hearing loss or brain damage.
Causes of the disease
Otitis in cats is easy to detect and promptly start treatment. A loving owner who pays enough attention to his pet will certainly notice changes in the behavior of the animal and will be able to start treating him in time.
- The cat becomes more restless than usual, tries to scratch his ear, rubs it with his paw, constantly shakes his head and tilts his head in the direction where the source of pain is.
- Redness and irritation of the skin of the affected ear. The skin on the inside of the ear may be hot.
- An increase in general body temperature in the later stages of the disease.
- Swelling of the ear, intense redness, decreased appetite and activity.
- Purulent or serous discharge from the ears with an unpleasant odor. The same discharge from the nose and eye of a sick cat is possible.
- Otitis media and internal otitis can give such a symptom as severe pain when opening the mouth.
Treatment of otitis media
It should always be remembered that at the slightest suspicion of otitis media, the owner must immediately show the pet to a veterinarian who will correctly diagnose, determine the cause of the disease and prescribe the necessary treatment.
It is clear that the owner does not always have the physical opportunity to visit the doctor with a cat. Then he himself detects otitis media in cats by symptoms and the owner also prescribes the treatment. But at the first opportunity, it is vital to show the fluffy beauty to a specialist.
Before visiting a doctor, the cat needs to be given primary care. First, you need to inspect the place where the animal is most often located and make sure that it is warm enough and there are no drafts. You can add vitamins and minerals to your cat's diet.
Pet ears should be put in order: clean with special lotions or suspensions, gently removing dirt from the ear with a cotton swab or a piece of bandage. In no case should you use ear sticks, they can injure the delicate ear of the animal. After applying special preparations, the ear should be wiped with a dry cotton swab or bandage. You can also give the animal pain medication.
The doctor usually prescribes a cat with otitis media drops that relieve inflammation, and antibiotics are almost always used for treatment, the course of which is at least seven days, even in the absence of severe symptoms of the disease.
If the cat scratched his ears a lot, then you need to lubricate the places of scratching with special healing ointments.
If a cat has a pronounced purulent otitis media with discharge from the ears, then it is necessary to wash in a hospital, an unprepared person is not able to independently with this type of disease. If the ear canals are deeply clogged with purulent discharge, then the help of a surgeon will be required.
Prevention of otitis media
It must be understood that any animal can get otitis media, but preventive measures are available to humans that can significantly reduce the risk of the disease.
The main method of prevention is the periodic cleaning of the ears of the animal. Weekly it is necessary to inspect the cat and wipe the ears from dirt and dust.
Deep cleaning using special products that facilitate the removal of excess sulfur should be carried out at least once a month. Then the pet will not have inflammatory processes that contribute to the development of otitis media.
When bathing a pet, it is important not to allow water or soapy water to get into the ears, you need to be very careful when washing the head and muzzle. It is possible to use a special cap that will protect the sensitive ears of the cat. You can use tampons, covering the ears of a fluffy beauty with them.
After swimming, you need to exclude the possibility of hypothermia. If the cat calmly reacts to the procedure for drying wool, then you can dry it with a warm hair dryer.
When injuries and scratching of the ears appear, the owner must necessarily disinfect the wounds so that inflammation does not develop.
The most important thing in detecting a disease and treating furry pets is timely diagnosis, properly selected treatment, and professional assistance from a veterinarian. Self-treatment of otitis media can lead to complete hearing loss in a pet, and in advanced cases, to more serious consequences.
Otitis media is an inflammation of the ear in cats and is one of the most common ailments affecting the external hearing apparatus of pets. Most owners tend to think about the harmlessness of the disease, but this is a deep delusion.
Untimely treatment and development of purulent otitis media can soon lead to serious complications - meningitis or even inflammation of the brain. Therefore, it is worth knowing not only about the signs and causes of otitis media, but also about its prevention measures.
Causes of otitis media in cats
Weak immunity and low resistance of the cat's body makes it practically defenseless against staphylococcus, streptococcus and trichophytosis bacilli, which leads to the development of the most severe form of this disease - purulent otitis media of the inner ear.
It's no secret that cats love to climb trees, which often leads to injuries or scratches on the outer ear, against which otitis media can again develop.
In addition, the owner of the cat must remember that hypothermia and poor sanitation of the auricles are also a harbinger of this serious disease.
Otitis in a cat symptoms and signs of the disease
An attentive owner will always notice changes in the behavior of his pet if he knows the main symptoms of otitis media. The most common are the most visually identifiable signs:
- Irritation and redness of the skin of the affected ear, in which the cat periodically rubs it and sometimes applies it to the head;
- Acute pain provokes a sharp jump up, screaming of cats, frightened looking around, the cat does not allow to touch the head;
- Constant itching and the appearance of sores, scratching in the ear area;
- Head shaking and lack of auditory response to the affected side;
- Possible drooping of the eyelid in case of damage to the facial nerve;
- The appearance of a characteristic sugary odor;
- Discharge from the ear with purulent otitis media;
- Leaning towards the pet, you can listen to the characteristic gurgling and squelching;
- Loss of appetite and cheerfulness;
- Heat;
- Irritability, constant meowing and yelling
Due to the slow development of otitis in some cases, despite minor deviations in the behavior of the cat, going to the veterinary clinic is the best solution for quick rehabilitation and treatment of the pet.
Purulent otitis in cats treatment
The disease at this stage is less treatable and there are frequent cases of surgical intervention or novocaine blockade to eliminate pain. A sick cat is prescribed a course of antibiotics by a veterinarian, vitamin therapy, ear washing and strict adherence to a diet are carried out.
In a lighter form, treatment at home is acceptable, subject to the strictest observance of all doctor's prescriptions. It is especially important before starting any therapy to identify the root cause of otitis and eliminate it, only then it will be possible to achieve positive results.
Treatment of otitis in cats at home
If you have otitis in a cat, what to treat will be prompted by an experienced doctor of a veterinary clinic who will professionally approach this issue and prescribe the most effective treatment. In most cases, a whole range of medical procedures is prescribed, which should definitely be carried out at a strictly defined time:
- To clean the fur from the inside of the ear;
- Periodically remove purulent discharge and accumulated sulfur with a gauze cloth moistened with a special lotion for ear hygiene;
- Remove residual moisture, wait for the affected area to dry completely;
- Drop drops prescribed by a veterinarian and lubricate with an ointment determined individually by the attending physician
To avoid the development of otitis media, preventive measures should be taken to help minimize the risk of the disease.
Prevention of otitis media in cats
- Strict observance of the rules of maintenance and care;
- Regularly inspect the ear canal;
- Timely cleaning of the auditory canals from sulfur;
- Avoid walking in damp windy weather and severe frost;
- In the process of water procedures, prevent water from entering the ears;
- Avoid contact with stray cats;
- Disinfect pet toiletries weekly
Every cat owner must know that the slightest delay in contacting a veterinarian can cost your beloved pet hearing loss or even take his life.
Sick pets are not people, they cannot talk about their problems and pains out loud, and the owners only have to guess why their pet has changed so much. Unfortunately, they also suffer from ear diseases. The most common of these is otitis media.
Purulent otitis media in a cat.
There are several reasons that provoked the development of purulent otitis media:
By combing the affected area, the cat thereby creates a favorable environment for infection to enter and develop.
- Allergy causes itching, as a result of which the animal combs the affected area, thereby creating a favorable environment for infection to enter and develop.
- fungal infection in itself causes inflammatory processes, and improper treatment causes the development of purulent inflammation.
- Pathology can be provoked and act as a complication with improper care or lack of treatment.
- In the cat's ear foreign objects may enter , which leads to damage to the shell and, as a result, the onset of the inflammatory process. Ignoring the signs is the reason for the onset of purulent pathology.
Symptoms
Constant shaking of the head indicates congestion of the moves.
The onset of the disease is mild, only the behavior of the cat changes.
- When foreign bodies get in, the animal constantly rubs the diseased area with its paw, trying to eliminate the interference.
- Congestion of moves is possible, which can be observed by the behavior of the pet - constant shaking of the head, inclined towards an unpleasant symptom.
- The skin around the affected area is reddened, irritation is visible in the form of ulcers, blisters or blood folds.
- An unpleasant smell is felt from the ear cavity.
- Possible partial paralysis of the face, hyperthermia of the body by one and a half or two degrees.
- The pet looks tired, activity is reduced, there is constant drowsiness.
- Appetite is reduced or absent altogether.
Diagnostics
This is what purulent otitis media looks like in a cat close up.
A preliminary diagnosis can be made at home by the owner of the cat. It will be enough just to carefully examine the hearing organs of the pet. For a more accurate clarification, you should take the animal to the clinic.
In the veterinary clinic, an accurate diagnosis is determined.
The doctor makes a skin scraping from the affected area, takes samples of pus.
Treatment of purulent otitis in a cat
Depending on the factor of occurrence, treatment is prescribed.
- It is recommended to use ear drops aurican, otibiovet, otonazole, otibiovin.
- In parallel, anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers are prescribed if there is a visible pain syndrome.
- If the provoking factor was an allergy, it is advisable to use antihistamines, however, it is necessary to find out the allergen.
Prevention
Otitis in cats, the symptoms and treatment of which will be discussed in this article, causes great suffering to animals. After all, excellent hearing is extremely important for your graceful pet. Otitis in cats, the symptoms and treatment of which depend on the etiology of the disease, greatly undermines the ability of the animal to navigate in space. Let's list the reasons that can cause this unpleasant disease.
Otitis in cats, symptoms
Ear problems can be caused by mites, fungal infections, foreign body ingestion, trauma, or swelling. All of these factors cause an inflammatory process in the auditory canal, which is called otitis media. In cats, the symptoms and treatment of this disease is identified and prescribed by a veterinarian. Damage to the delicate skin of the ear by a tick or fungi gives rise to discomfort, combing the ears with its paws. By doing this, it introduces an additional infection, and also stimulates the increased production of earwax, which is a medium for pathogens. This vicious circle must be broken, because until the itch is removed, the animal suffers.
It must be remembered that once otitis media has been diagnosed in cats, treatment must begin immediately. Otherwise, the inflammation will go deeper from the external part of the auditory canal, reach the eardrum, which may threaten deafness in the future. In very advanced cases, otitis media is complicated by meningitis.
It will not be difficult to list - this is an unpleasant smell, swelling of the skin of the ear canal and its redness. The behavior of a cat says a lot. She scratches her ears, shakes her head, rubs against the ground, becomes depressed, irritable, lethargic. Some animals lose their appetite.
Otitis in cats: symptoms and treatment
The first thing a veterinarian should do is to identify the cause of the inflammation and eliminate it. This step may involve removing ear mites, treating a fungus, or removing a foreign object from the ear. It is simultaneously prescribed with the help of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs. The ear canals need to be cleaned regularly, as secretions accumulate in them - a solution of hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine will help with this. Also, the doctor may prescribe a special veterinary lotion. Cotton swabs cannot be used for this purpose - no matter how clever you are, there is always the possibility of damaging the cat's ear and aggravating its suffering. Washing is carried out as follows: the animal needs to fix its head, pour an antibacterial drug into the ear, then lightly massage the ear and release the cat. It will shake fluid and impurities out of the ear. You need to be careful not to injure your pet and not let him scratch or bite you. After treatment, it is very important to take time to prevent otitis - to clean the wax with wet wipes and to ensure that the cat does not become infected with ear mites.
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