Are There Alternatives To Antibiotics For Dog Ear Infections
If your dog is showing signs of an ear infection, it is important to seek veterinary advice. Do not be tempted to try and treat the ear infection at home as the infection could progress, leading to more serious problems such as a ruptured ear drum, middle ear infections, abscesses around the ear, or inner ear infections. Not all ear infections require antibiotics.
Your vet can advise on the most appropriate treatment. Ear cleansers that contain antibacterial ingredients or change the acidity of the ear canal can be used to control mild ear infections. For some infections, controlling the inflammation and removing the underlying cause is enough to allow the infection to resolve without antibiotics.
Ear infections can be painful and uncomfortable for our canine friends, so naturally, we want to resolve them as fast as possible. Seek veterinary advice promptly if you notice signs of infection with your dogs ear and follow the advice carefully to avoid problems or recurring infections. Antibiotics can be a safe and effective treatment for ear infections in dogs. However, they are not always needed. We all have a role to play in ensuring the safe and responsible use of antibiotics and in limiting serious problems such as antibiotic resistance.
Which Otc Medications Are Safe For Dogs
If your pup isnt feeling well, you could be tempted to give him medication from your medicine cabinet, but in many cases, this isnt safe. Many human drugs can cause dangerous side effects in dogs. However, there are a handful that are generally considered safe for dogs. See our article on which OTC medications are safe for dogs to learn more.
Why Should I Buy A
You can tell if you need or want a antibiotic for dog ear infection by looking at your existing inventory. You probably dont need it and should reconsider buying it. If you cant get go of the old one, you could sell it and use the proceeds to buy the new one.This is a fun and easy approach to finish your task.
Final Thoughts
Lets face it, we all want to feel good about our purchases. But there are so many! How can you know which is best? You need not be concerned because Aids Quilt has your back. Our trained staff is here to help you find what works for you. Before making a final decision, you can take advantage of our free consultations. Let us show you how easy shopping for home audio equipment can be when you have an expert on your side!
Recommended Reading: Antibiotics That Start With C For Tooth Infection
Types & Causes Of Ear Infections In Dogs
Bacterial ear infections in dogs are the most common however, yeast, fungus and ear mites can all cause your pup’s ears to become infected and painful. Dog ear infections can also occur due to foreign objects lodged in the ear, trauma, and tumors or polyps.
The 3 types of ear infections that your dog could be diagnosed with are:
Treating Ear Infections In Dogs
If your dog is diagnosed with an ear infection your vet will take the time to clean your dog’s ear with a medicated cleanser and prescribe any antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications appropriate for treating your pet’s ear infection. Your veterinarian may also prescribe a topical medication and instruct you on how and when to apply it to your dog’s ear at home.
When treated in the early stages, an uncomplicated ear infection will typically clear up within just a week or two. If your dog’s ear infection is more severe or is caused by an underlying health condition, treatment may be more challenging and may take months to resolve. In many cases, more severe cases result in chronic ear infections in dogs or repeated ear infections over the course of the pet’s lifetime.
Following your vet’s instructions carefully will be essential to clearing up your dog’s ear infection as quickly as possible. Not finishing prescriptions, or stopping treatment before the infection has completely cleared can lead to recurring, chronic or more severe ear infections in dogs that may become increasingly difficult to treat.
Follow-up appointments with your vet are highly recommended for dog ear infections. While it may look as if the infection has cleared there can still be traces of infection that are difficult for owners to spot.
You May Like: What Over The Counter Antibiotics Treat Uti
Antibiotics For Dog Utis
Dogs get urinary tract infections like us humans do. And in some cases, dogs need an antibiotic to treat and clear up the UTI. The commonly used antibiotics for an uncomplicated bacterial dog UTI are:
In addition to treating your dog with antibiotics, you should make sure your pup is drinking plenty of water.
What Can I Use To Treat My Dogs Ear Infection
Treating your dogs ear infection depends on the type of infection they have. This will be diagnosed at your veterinarians office with the ear swab. The ear infection will then be treated with medicated ear drops, most of which you can only get with a prescription from your vet.
Some medicated ear drops only have a steroid ingredient in them, which decreases the inflammation and pain in your dogs ears. Others have a combination of an antibacterial, antifungal, and steroid ingredient to treat the infection. Your vet will recommend the best option.
Examples of the medication your vet may prescribe include:
Depending on how much discharge is in your dogs ears, your veterinarian may also prescribe an ear cleanser to flush out your dogs ears a few times a week. The ear cleanser also helps dry out your dogs ears and to reduce the growth of bacteria and yeast.
Make sure to clean your dogs ears out with the ear cleanser prior to putting in the medicated ear drops.
If you are concerned about being able to safely put ear drops in your dogs ears at home, let your veterinarian know. There are newer treatment options that allow your veterinarian to apply a dose of medication in your dogs ears. These medications last for an entire month without you having to do anything at home.
Recommended Reading: Ok To Get Flu Shot While On Antibiotics
What Is The Most Important Thing I Should Know About Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution With Hydrocortisone
Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with Hydrocortisone is used in cats and dogs for the treatment of acute and chronic otitis externa due to bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections accompanied with itching and inflammation. This broad-spectrum solution has been tested to be effective against microbes such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Streptococcus intermedius, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Proteus mirabilis, Malassezia pachydermatis, and MRSA.
What Should I Avoid While Applying Otomax To My Pet
Do not use this medication in pets allergic to it or any of the individual ingredients. Do not use in dogs with perforated eardrums. Discontinue use of this medication and contact your veterinarian if hearing loss is noted during treatment. Treatment beyond 7 days may lead to prolonged wound healing.
Also Check: List Of Iv Antibiotics For Pneumonia
Signs Of Dog Ear Infections
A healthy dog ear is clean and dry. It is normal for small amounts of microscopic bacteria and yeast to live in the outer ear canal, but when a buildup of debris occurs, or the normal, healthy ear canal is compromised, those bacteria and yeast can overgrow and create an infection.
Common signs of dog ear infections include:
Occasionally, dogs can experience hearing loss or balance issues. Rarely, an ear infection may affect a dogs appetite if the pet is having system-wide effects. This is seen more often with otitis media or interna.
Otitis Externa The Most Common Ear Disease In Dogs Can Be Caused By Many Factors
A detailed history and thorough physical and skin examination can provide clues as to the cause of otitis externa. The pinnae and regions near the ear may show evidence of self-trauma , redness of skin, and primary and secondary skin abnormalities. Deformities of the pinnae, an abnormal growth of tissue in the canal, and head-shaking suggest longterm ear discomfort.
Your dog may require sedation or anesthesia to allow a thorough examination using an otoscope. This is especially true if the ear is painful, if the canal is obstructed with discharge or widespread inflammatory tissue, or if the animal is uncooperative. An examination using an otoscope will allow identification of foreign objects deep in the ear, impacted debris, low-grade infections with parasites, and ruptured or abnormal eardrums. Tissues for culture are usually taken at the same time that the examination of the ear canal using an otoscope is being conducted.
Sometimes a smear taken using a cotton-tipped applicator can provide immediate diagnostic information. The external ear canals of most dogs and cats harbor small numbers of harmless microorganisms. These organisms may cause disease if the environment of the ear changes in a way that allows them to multiply and cause an infection. Microscopic examination of a smear can quickly determine if this type of overgrowth is present.
Also Check: Antibiotic Ear Drops For Dogs Pets At Home
When Are Antibiotics Prescribed
Antibiotics are typically only prescribed to treat AOM and swimmers ear. This is because OME and COME occur after the bacterial infection has passed antibiotics are not effective against the fluid buildup alone.
Your doctor will examine your ear with an otoscope and evaluate your symptoms to determine what type of infection you have and whether antibiotics will be effective. If your symptoms are mild, they may recommend taking a wait-and-see approach. If symptoms dont resolve on their own or if theyre severe, then antibiotics will likely be prescribed.
Recommended Reading: Cleaning Guinea Pig Ears
Benefits Of Antibiotic Ointment For Dog Ear Infection
Antibiotic ointment is a product that comes in different types. There are several benefits of using the antibiotic ointment for dog ear infections.
It is safe to use on dogs, cats, and other animals. This is important because the user will not have to worry about allergic reactions or side effects causing harm to their pets health.
Antibiotic ointment can be used on different parts of the body including arms and feet which makes it more versatile than its counterparts such as antibiotics creams that cannot be applied on specific areas like ears or hands without causing problems such as burning sensations when they come into contact with sensitive skin regions such as underarms or palms where bacteria growths tend to occur due their proximity with sweat glands which release perspiration during activities like washing dishes soiled hands before going outside after work hours.
Don’t Miss: What Antibiotics Used For Uti Treatment
Homeopathy For Chronic Ear Infections
If your dog has chronic, recurring ear issues, its best to get help from a professional homeopath. Theyll do a complete analysis of your dog, then prescribe the appropriate remedy for all her symptoms. This approach will help get to the underlying cause of your dogs ear problems.
You can find a homeopathic vet at theavh.org. Most will do phone consults so they dont have to be local.
Now that you know how to handle an acute ear infection in your dog, its a good idea to keep reading, so you can prevent your dog from getting ear infections in future.
Dont Miss: What Is The Most Effective Antibiotic For A Uti
Is Antibiotic Resistance A Concern For Dog Ear Infections
Yes, antibiotic resistance is a huge concern and poses a serious threat to humans and dogs. Since antibiotics have been discovered, infections have been much easier to treat, but we must use them carefully. Otherwise, bacteria become resistant to their effects. The more antibiotics we use, the more bacteria get used to them and find ways to resist them.
If your dogs ear infection is not responding to an initial course of treatment, your vet may take a sample of the infection for a test called culture and sensitivity. This involves growing, or culturing, the bacteria in a lab and testing the activity of common antibiotics against it to identify resistance and choose the most suitable antibiotic for that specific infection.
Also Check: Antibiotics Gave Me A Yeast Infection
Can Dogs Get Allergic Reactions To Antibiotics
Yes, dogs can get allergic reactions to antibiotic treatments. This is why its important to consult your veterinarian before antibiotics are administered and to monitor your dog while he or she is on them.
The cause and type of allergic reaction depends on how your pups unique biology mixes with the type and dosage of the antibiotic taken. Many symptoms occur within the first 24 hours and can include skin irritation, rashes, itching, trouble breathing, coughing, nausea, swelling, appetite loss, anaphylactic shock, and more.
After taking antibiotics, keep a close eye on your dog. Take them to a veterinarian immediately if you notice symptoms like these.
Bacterial Culture And Sensitivity
Culture and sensitivity may be useful in identifying specific otic pathogens and assisting with treatment decisions however, a limitation is that antibiotic sensitivity data reflect the serum level needed systemically and may not predict true susceptibility of otic topical antibiotics.
Typical indications for bacterial C/S include the following14:
- Chronic otitis associated with bacteria seen on cytology
- Rods seen on cytology
- Suspected or confirmed cases of otitis media
- History of multidrug-resistant bacteria
- History of long-term oral or topical antibiotic therapy
- Bacteria persisting on cytology despite apparently appropriate therapy
FIGURE 5. Cytologic appearance of degenerate neutrophils and cocci .
FIGURE 6. Cytologic appearance of degenerate neutrophils and rods .
Clinicians should sample the middle ear separately if otitis media is confirmed when the tympanic membrane is intact. The types and sensitivity pattern of bacteria isolated from the middle ear may differ from those of bacteria isolated from the external canal.8 In one study, different organisms were cultured from the middle and external ear, and even when Pseudomonas species were cultured twice from the same ear, different strains were suspected on the basis of the sensitivity pattern exhibited.8 Culture results should be interpreted with caution because mixed bacterial flora and light commensal and contaminant bacteria might be present and may not be relevant as pathogens.
Also Check: Do You Need Antibiotics For Bacterial Bronchitis
Amoxicillin & Clavulanate Potassium Compound
beta-lactam antibiotic drugClavamox chewable tablets soft tissue infectionsFDA approved veterinary antibacterial drug62mg, 125mg, 250mg, and 375mgThe recommended dose of amoxicillin trihydrate and clavulanate potassium for ear infections in dogs is6.25mg per pound125mg per day125mg/day doses in two divided doses like 62.5mg in the morning and 62.5mg in the evening
What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Otomax
Side effects associated with this medication are related to the individual ingredients. Gentamicin, while absorbed poorly from the skin, when applied topically to large wounds, burns, or denuded skin for prolonged periods of time has a potential for reversible or irreversible ear and kidney toxicity. Hearing loss may occur. Discontinue this medication and consult with your veterinarian if hearing loss, head tilting or dizziness are noticed. In humans, clotrimazole has been observed to occasionally cause redness of the skin, stinging, blistering, peeling, fluid retention, itching, hives and general irritation of the skin. Discontinue the medication and talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.
You May Like: What Kind Of Antibiotics For Dog Ear Infection
Is It Time To Get A New Antibiotic Cream For Dogs
Youre looking for a new antibiotic cream for dogs. What do you think? Its difficult to predict future price changes. If there are no signs of production slowing, it can be worth buying now to enjoy your investment sooner. But if output is declining and prices are predicted to rise, you might want to wait until the buzz has died down before making a choice.
Diagnosis And When To See A Vet
If you notice anything unusual about your dogs ears, its best to get your veterinarian to check them over, says Jamie Richardson, BVetMed, the head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Veterinary. If your dog is showing signs of painful ear irritation, the problem is not likely to go away on its own. Additionally symptoms of an ear infection mirror other ear issues, such as polyps or tumors, allergies, hematoma, or even neurological disease.
Recommended Reading: 10 Day Antibiotic For Sinus Infection
How To Use Antibiotic Ointment For Dog Ear Infection
Before you apply the medication, you must clean the ear canal. You should never apply any antibiotic ointment to the outer ear or ear drum, as this can cause irritation and damage to your dogs sensitive skin.
To apply it properly, follow these steps:
- Wet a cotton ball with warm water and gently wipe out any wax or debris in your dogs ears by massaging them gently. If necessary, use tweezers to pull out any pieces that dont come out easily on their own.
- Make sure both of your hands are clean you dont want germs getting into your pets ear. Then take a small amount of antifungal or antibacterial cream and rub it on both sides of his ears until theyre coated well enough for him not to feel anything is there . Finally, wrap a dry towel around his head so he feels more comfortable while waiting for his bath time later this evening because dogs dont like baths either.
What Antibiotic Is Used For Ear Infections In Dogs
Antibiotics will be used for a bacterial infection for 6-8 weeks minimum. If the infection is fungal in nature, an anti-fungal medication will be prescribed.Antibiotics is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Its use in dogs to treat certain specific infections and its use in small mammals, birds, and reptiles is off label or extra label. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. https://vcahospitals.com know-your-pet enrofloxacin
Read Also: Antibiotic Eye Drops For Chemical Burn
