Effective Treatments for Cat Otitis Interna & Externa

Section 1: Diagnosis of Feline Otitis Media and Otitis Interna

When pet owners notice unusual behaviors in their cats at home, such as frequent head shaking, tilting the head to one side, ataxia, falling, facial nerve abnormalities, or discharge from the ears, it may be worth considering the possibility of otitis. Reflect on your cat's recent bathing and ear cleaning routines, any history of ear skin issues, and whether they have been regularly vaccinated and dewormed. Keeping a clear record of this information can greatly assist your veterinarian in diagnosing the cause of the otitis and developing a treatment plan.

Before taking your cat to the vet for a diagnosis, avoid cleaning the ear discharge first, as these secretions can be crucial for diagnosing the condition. Upon arrival at the veterinary clinic, the vet will gather the information you provide and then proceed with ear examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to determine if your cat has otitis media or interna. In some cases, a tympanocentesis may be necessary for further diagnostic assistance.

Section 2: Treatment Methods for Otitis Media and Otitis Interna

1. Cleaning the Ear Canal: Thoroughly clean your cat's ears. After administering anesthesia, your cat will be in a sedated state, allowing for the use of an otoscope to clear debris from the outer and middle ear canals. Alternatively, you can flush your cat's ears with 0.9% saline solution.

2. Medication Therapy: The primary treatment for otitis media and interna is local therapy, as it is generally safer than systemic treatment. Local treatment is preferred due to its higher safety profile. Only when local medication is not feasible will systemic treatment be considered.

Commonly used medications for treating otitis media and interna include antibiotics, corticosteroids, and other drugs. However, the specific type of medication, dosage, and frequency should be determined by your veterinarian based on the cat's ear discharge sensitivity test, palpation, ear pain level, swelling, stenosis, and fibrosis. To prevent recurrence, even after symptoms have completely resolved, it is necessary to continue using antibiotics for three weeks.

Pet Doctor's Tip: In cases where the condition is severe and difficult to cure, longterm management and control may be required. This involves ongoing medication and regular followup appointments.

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