Why Cytology Matters in Diagnosing Ear Infections

Ear infections (otitis externa) are one of the most common conditions we see in dogs. They cause pain, itching, head-shaking, and discharge. If left untreated, they can progress into chronic issues that affect a dog’s comfort and hearing.

What Causes Ear Infections?

Ear infections are usually caused by an overgrowth of bacteria, yeast, or both. But there’s almost always an underlying reason why the ear became inflamed in the first place. Common risk factors include:

• Moisture in the ears after swimming or bathing

• Floppy or hairy ears that trap heat and humidity

• Allergies that inflame the skin

The Role of Cytology

When a pet presents with an ear infection, we don’t just look inside the ear - we take a cytology sample. This involves collecting a small swab of ear discharge, staining it, and viewing it under the microscope.

Why does this matter?

• Yeast and bacteria look very different under the microscope - and they need different medications.

• Cytology helps us choose the right treatment the first time, avoiding trial-and-error approaches.

• It also allows us to monitor progress - even if the ear looks better, repeat cytology confirms whether the infection is truly gone.

Without cytology, it’s easy to under-treat or mis-treat an infection, which can lead to recurring issues and long-term damage.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment usually involves medicated ear drops for at least 14 days. Once cytology confirms the infection has cleared, we then focus on preventing recurrence - often through regular ear cleaning, managing allergies, or monitoring pets prone to infections.

Key Takeaway

Cytology is a quick, painless, and essential step in diagnosing ear infections. It ensures pets receive the correct treatment and helps prevent frustrating recurrences.

If you notice your dog shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or if there’s a smelly discharge, book an appointment with our team. With the right diagnosis and care, we can keep those ears comfortable and healthy.