If you observe red, swollen, or inflamed ears in your cats, this may indicate Otitis. This ear infection can be caused by bacteria, ear mites, yeast, allergies, foreign bodies, polyps or tumors, excessive ear wax, poor ear anatomy, trauma, or over-cleaning and requires prompt treatment. If left untreated, it may result in severe complications such as irreversible ear damage, hearing impairment, and potential neurological issues. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a specialist in pet dermatology in Dubai who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat the condition, ensuring your cats live a healthy and happy life.
Signs of Otitis in Your Cats
Here is the list of symptoms that indicate that your cats are suffering from Otitis:
- Red and inflamed ears
- Swollen and thickened ear canals
- Accumulation of sulfur
- Ulcers, sores, and dark crusts
- Increased discharge
- Hair loss around the ears
- Unpleasant smell
- Constant scratching
- Frequent shaking of the head
- Problems with hearing
- Increase in body temperature
- Aggressive behavior
- Impaired coordination
Primary Causes of the Illness
Parasites, allergies, infectious diseases, and neoplasms are the primary causes of otitis in cats. Additionally, it can be triggered by a foreign body, respiratory illness, structural/anatomical issues, endocrine or immune-mediated conditions, trauma, and excess moisture. The prescribed treatment and the speed of recovery depend on the underlying cause.
Parasites
Parasites such as ear mites are the major cause of the disease. These tiny, microscopic arachnids measuring less than 1 mm are invisible to the naked eye. Their bites lead to inflammation, and their waste triggers irritation and itching inside the cat’s ears, resulting in a great level of discomfort.
Allergy
An allergic reaction can occur due to certain foods, dust, pollen, household products, and other external factors. Pet owners need to be cautious and aware of things that can cause allergies in their furry companions.
Neoplasm
Commonly referred to as tumors, a neoplasm is an abnormal growth of tissues. It can further be categorized into benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous).
Benign formations include ceruminous cysts and polyps. They have no age or gender predisposition and do not pose a threat to your felines. However, inflammation in the ear canal occurs due to changes in the canal walls and sulfur buildup.
Malignant tumors usually develop in older cats. In most cases, cats are diagnosed with adenocarcinomas of the ceruminous glands, which require an excision (surgical removal) of the auditory canal.
Respiratory Issues
The main cause is often inflammation of the respiratory tract, such as chronic rhinitis, viral and bacterial infections, and infectious agents that affect the upper and even lower respiratory tract.
Foreign Bodies
Grass, dirt, seeds, or debris lodged in the ear canal can trigger irritation and secondary infection.
Different Types of Otitis in Felines
- Otitis Externa: Inflammation of the external auditory canal and the surrounding structures, but does not include the tympanic bulla.
- Otitis Media: Infection of the middle ear, often secondary to otitis externa. This type impacts both bulla cavities. However, the inner ear structure remains unaffected.
- Internal Otitis: It usually occurs as a result of complications and spread of inflammation from the middle ear to the inner ear. It may affect balance and cause neurological disorders.
Otitis is further classified into:
- Purulent: Bacterial otitis caused by either opportunistic microflora or environmental pathogens. The discharge has an unpleasant odor and yellow color.
- Allergic: Usually affects the entrance and vertical portion of the external auditory canal. Signs include erythema, increased buildup of sulfur, and excessive itching.
- Fungal: Triggered by opportunistic microflora, specifically yeasts from the Malassezia genus. Appears as brown, ointment-like discharge with a strong, sweet odor.
- Ceruminous: Caused by increased activity of glands producing sulfur. This leads to the formation of plugs and triggers inflammation process.
How to Diagnose?
The most common diagnostic procedures include:
- Microscopic examination
- Otoscopy
- CT and MRI scans
- Videotoscopy
Preventive Measures
Pet owners should take these preventive measures to timely diagnose the disease and reduce serious risks:
- Periodically inspect your feline’s ears.
- Treat your cats regularly for ectoparasites.
- Do not experiment with your pet’s diet unless necessary or prescribed by the veterinarian.
- Monitor behavioral changes; if any suspicious symptoms occur, visit a veterinary clinic.
