Ear Infection In Cocker SpanielsLoading
Ear Infection In Cocker Spaniels Cocker Spaniels are prone to problems with their ears. Their long flopping ear lobes cover their ear canal resulting in dark, warm, moist places where bacteria can thrive - it's very important, therefore, to keep your Cocker Spaniel's ears clean. Cleaning your dog's ears regularly will help to stop a build up of wax, which, if left, could cause compaction and bacterial problems. There are many causes of dog ear infection, both in Cocker Spaniels and other, long-eared dogs, and the more common problems are listed below: Allergies May Cause An Infection In The Ear An allergy will often manifest itself in your dogs ears, causing your dog to scratch, which can lead to the skin lining the ear becoming inflamed. Inflammation increases the temperature and humidity of the ear providing an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Your dog may have an allergic reaction to something that he eats, or he may have an allergy to grass seeds or pollen. Whatever the cause, allergies can be difficult to diagnose. If you believe your dog may have an allergy, consult your vet who will advise you on the best course of action. Learn more about canine allergies here. Otitis Externa - Ear Infection In Cocker Spaniels Otitis Externa is an inflammation of the external ear canal. There are many reasons why dog's ears may become inflamed but, generally, Otitis Externa is caused by infection from bacteria and/or yeast. Possible causes of Otitis Externa are excess moisture in the ear, an allergy, a hormone disorder (thyroid or adrenal disorders, although rare, can affect the health of dog's ears), foreign bodies, (such as grass seeds and burrs) or simply, dirty ears. Symptoms of Otitis Externa in your dog's ears are sensitivity caused by pain, inflammation, shaking of the head, scratching the ears, or a discharge of malodourous ear wax. Treatment depends upon the diagnosis, but usually your vet will prescribe an ointment to control the bacteria and/or yeast. Ear Mites (Otodectes Cynotis) Ear mites are tiny crab-like creatures that can infest your Cocker Spaniel's ears, and are very contagious to other dogs. Symptoms include your dog shaking his head, scratching his ears, and increased ear wax. If you suspect your dog has ear mites, you may be able to confirm this by removing and inspecting the wax from his ears. Ear mites leave a dark residue of dried blood (said to resemble coffee grounds) in the ear. The mites can be difficult to see but, if viewed under a good light, they may show up as tiny white specks - you'll need good eyesight for this, as mites are very small. If you suspect your dog has ear mites, we recommend you take him to see his vet who will confirm this for you, and prescribe a suitable course of treatment. Micro-Organisms - Bacteria and Yeast Bacteria and yeast thrive in dark, warm, moist places such as the ear canal, and the long floppy ears of the Cocker Spaniel provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Most dogs will have some bacteria present in their ears; however, a change in the ear environment can cause these micro-organisms to multiply, can attract other bacteria, and can cause ear infection. Such changes may be caused by an allergy, excess moisture, increased ear wax, or an increase in temperature. Symptoms of a bacterial infection are similar to those seen in other ear diseases, and include shaking of the head, tilting the head to one side, scratching the ears, inflammation of the ear, a malodourous discharge, and in serious cases, hearing loss. If you suspect your Cocker Spaniel has a problem with his ears the best thing you can do for him is to take him to see his vet immediately - don't try to tackle the problem yourself. Ear Canker - Ear Infection In Cocker Spaniels Grass seeds and plant matter, poor air circulation, and an accumulation of wax in the ear all can cause ear canker. Canker can result in a dark coloured foul-smelling discharge. Correct diagnosis and treatment is best given by your vet.
It's important to take your dog to the vets as soon as you see any sign of infection. Common symptoms of infection can be found here. Your vet will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis of ear infections in Cocker Spaniels and suggest a recommended course of action.
Titles in the Cocker Spaniel Ears SeriesLearn About Your Dogs EarsInfections in Cocker Spaniel's Ears
|
