Otitis Media

Anatomically, the ear canal is divided into three sections: external, middle, and inner portions. Otitis media refers to inflammation of the middle portion of the ear. Unlike in people, otitis media in dogs and cats commonly occurs as an extension of an external ear infection. Unresolved external ear infections break through the ear drum, pushing the infection into the depths of the middle ear. Pets with otitis media develop excessive waxy and or pus-filled discharge, odor, hearing loss, and pain around their ears; they may shake their head or rub their ears. Diagnosis of otitis media begins with a close inspection of the ear canal using an illuminated otoscope. Large amounts of discharge, infection or the presence of a foreign body may preclude diagnosis until the debris can be removed. Otitis media is a painful condition; deep sedation and/or general anesthesia may be required for visualization of the deeper portions of the ear to make a definitive diagnosis. Treatment of otitis media must address the infection (topical and oral antibiotics and/or antifungal medications), inflammation (cleaning the ears of debris and anti-inflammatory medications), and underlying causes (e.g.: hypothyroidism, allergies, and foreign bodies). Pets with severe or non-responsive otitis media may require imaging (e.g.: x-rays or CT scan) to determine the full extent of the disease. Resolution of severe infections often necessitates surgery to mechanically remove the infection or tumor. Frequent recheck examinations ensure that the infection resolves completely. Your veterinarian will discuss strategies with you to prevent recurrence.

Bellevue Hours
Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday9:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed

FOR EMERGENCIES after hours pertaining to a surgery performed by Bellevue Animal Hospital in the last 14 days, please contact: (419) 603-8299.

FOR ALL OTHER EMERGIENCIES after hours please reach out to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

We usually hold an educational staff meeting from 12pm - 3pm on the second or third Wednesday of each month. We will be closed during this time.

After Hours

Since we are unable to staff our hospitals 24 hours a day, please contact one of the emergency centers below. They will be able provide you and your pet with the after hours supervision and care you need.



MedVet Cleveland West
20400 Emerald Parkway
Cleveland, OH 44135
216-362-6000
www.medvetforpets.com

Sandusky Hours
Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday9:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed

FOR EMERGENCIES after hours pertaining to a surgery performed by Sandusky Animal Hospital in the last 14 days, please contact: (419) 603-8299.

FOR ALL OTHER EMERGIENCIES after hours please reach out to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

We usually hold an educational staff meeting from 12pm - 3pm on the second or third Wednesday of each month. We will be closed during this time.