Foreign Body in the Ear Canal
Foreign bodies in the ear canal are objects that enter and remain in the external ear canal of dogs or cats. The ear canal of our pets consists of a vertical and a horizontal portion, which together form an L-shaped channel leading to the eardrum. This anatomical feature makes it difficult to spontaneously shake out foreign bodies. The ear canal is lined with skin and contains glands that produce earwax, which normally transports dirt and foreign bodies outward. In dogs, the ear canal is significantly longer than in cats, which leads to an increased susceptibility to foreign body deposits, especially in breeds with floppy ears. Understanding these anatomical basics is helpful for the prevention and treatment of foreign bodies in our pets’ ears.
Causes
The causes of foreign bodies in the ear canal are diverse and vary depending on the season and living environment of the animal. Plant-based foreign bodies are particularly common in the summer months. Awns from grasses and cereals, especially wild oats, pose a particular problem due to their arrow-like structure with barbs. These can only move in one direction – deeper into the ear canal – causing considerable irritation and injury in the process. In addition to plant materials, insects such as ticks, fleas, or flies can enter the ear canal and act as foreign bodies. For cats that often frequent dusty environments like attics, dust particles and small debris can lead to problems. For dogs that enjoy swimming, sand or soil can enter and remain in the ear canal. Iatrogenic foreign bodies – those caused by human action, such as broken cotton swab tips from improper ear cleaning – should not be underestimated. In long-haired breeds, hair can also grow into the ear canal and act as a foreign body or trap other foreign bodies.
Symptoms
They can lead to
- itching,
- pain,
- inflammation, and
- prolonged infections.
- The symptoms of a foreign body in the ear canal are often clearly recognizable and should be taken seriously by pet owners. Affected animals frequently show noticeable head shaking, which can occur suddenly and is particularly intense after spending time outdoors. This shaking is an attempt by the animal to get rid of the disturbing foreign body. At the same time, the animals scratch the affected ear more frequently, which can lead to skin abrasions or even an ear hematoma. Another characteristic symptom is tilting the head towards the affected side, as this reduces the sensation of pain. Upon closer inspection, pet owners can often notice redness of the ear flap and the visible part of the ear canal. In advanced cases, a foul-smelling discharge may emerge from the ear, indicating a secondary bacterial infection. Some animals also show behavioral changes such as increased irritability or lethargy due to pain. With foreign bodies that are deep in the ear canal or touching the eardrum, neurological symptoms such as balance disorders or uncoordinated movements may occur. In particularly severe cases, hearing loss can occur, which is noticeable through reduced reaction to acoustic stimuli.
First Aid
- If you see foxtails along the roadside in summer, check the entire body, paws, and around and inside the ear for seed heads stuck in the fur after every walk, and remove them if possible.
- However, do not use cotton swabs to clean the ear canal. You could push the foreign body deeper into the ear canal.
- You should only use tweezers if you are experienced and the foreign body is clearly visible.
- Other foreign bodies can be attempted to be flushed out with lukewarm water. You can use a small rubber bulb ear syringe or a simple syringe to push water with some pressure into the ear canal to flush out a non-stuck foreign body.
If you are not successful, take your pet to a veterinarian for a more detailed examination of the ear canal.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing a foreign body in the ear canal requires a thorough veterinary examination. First, I, as a veterinarian, take a history, asking about the onset of symptoms, possible triggering events, and previous ear problems. The clinical examination begins with a visual inspection of the ear pinna and external ear canal. The crucial diagnostic step is otoscopy, where a special instrument, the otoscope, is used to examine the entire ear canal up to the eardrum. This examination allows direct visualization of the foreign body as well as assessment of inflammation, swelling, or injuries to the ear canal wall. For nervous or pain-sensitive animals, sedation or even short-term general anesthesia may be necessary to conduct a thorough examination without causing additional pain to the animal or risking further injury. In some cases, visibility may be limited by secretions or inflammatory products, so a careful flushing of the ear canal may be required initially. In addition to otoscopy, a swab is often taken for cytological examination and, if necessary, a microbiological culture to identify and specifically treat secondary infections. If deeper damage is suspected, especially when the eardrum is not visible or middle ear involvement is suspected, imaging techniques such as X-rays or, better yet, computed tomography may be necessary.
Further veterinary measures
The therapy for foreign bodies in the ear canal primarily aims at gentle removal of the foreign material. As a veterinarian, I choose different approaches depending on the location, type of foreign body, and cooperation of the animal. For superficially visible, loose foreign bodies, careful extraction can be performed under visual control using fine tweezers or special ear forceps. Deeper or firmly adhering foreign bodies usually require sedation or short-term anesthesia to avoid pain and allow precise removal. For plant foreign bodies like awns that have already bored into the ear canal wall, special caution is needed to avoid leaving fragments behind. After removing the foreign body, a thorough flushing of the ear canal follows with body-temperature physiological saline solution or special ear cleaning solutions to remove any remaining residues. Subsequently, the ear canal is carefully examined for injuries and the condition of the eardrum. In case of accompanying otitis externa (ear canal inflammation) or secondary bacterial infections, I prescribe topical medications containing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents. These usually need to be applied for 7-14 days. For eardrum injuries or middle ear involvement, systemic antibiotics and pain relievers are indicated. Close follow-up is important to monitor the healing process and adjust the therapy if necessary. In particularly severe cases with chronic changes or repeated foreign body episodes, surgical measures such as ear canal ablation (partial removal of the ear canal) may be considered.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for foreign bodies in the ear canal is generally good in most cases, provided prompt and proper removal is carried out. The healing process depends crucially on how long the foreign body has been in the ear and what damage it has caused. With early treatment and no complications, a full recovery can be expected within 7-14 days. Aftercare plays a vital role in the success of the therapy. As a veterinarian, I recommend regular follow-up examinations, initially after about a week, to monitor the healing process and ensure that no remnants of the foreign body remain. The correct application of prescribed medications is essential – ear drops or ointments must be applied after thorough but gentle cleaning of the external ear canal. The owner should ensure that the animal does not shake its head immediately after treatment. A neck collar may be necessary in some cases to prevent the animal from scratching the ear and disturbing the healing process. For animals with droopy ears, carefully tying the ears up can improve ventilation and promote healing. In the long term, prevention of further foreign body episodes is important. This includes regular ear inspections, especially after staying in tall grass or grain fields, as well as appropriate ear hygiene. For dogs with predisposing factors such as excessive hair growth in the ear canal, regular plucking of the hair by a veterinarian or trained groomer may be advisable.
Summary
Foreign bodies in the ear canal represent a common problem in dogs and cats that requires prompt action. The anatomical structure of the ear canal, with its L-shaped course, favors the retention of foreign material. Plant-based foreign bodies such as awns with their barbs can cause considerable damage if not removed promptly. Affected animals show typical symptoms such as intense head shaking, scratching at the ear, and tilting of the head. A thorough veterinary examination using otoscopy is essential for diagnosis. Treatment consists of gentle removal of the foreign body, often under sedation or anesthesia, followed by appropriate medication for accompanying inflammation or infections. The prognosis is good with early intervention, with aftercare including regular check-ups and correct medication application ensuring therapeutic success. Preventive measures such as regular ear inspections after outdoor activities and appropriate ear hygiene can reduce the risk of recurrent foreign body episodes. Special attention should be paid to breeds with droopy ears or excessive hair growth in the ear canal, as these have an increased risk. By educating pet owners about the importance of early veterinary consultation when a foreign body in the ear is suspected, complications can be avoided and the quality of life of our animal companions can be maintained.
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of ear diseases in small animals is constantly evolving, bringing new insights and treatment approaches for foreign bodies in the ear canal. Current studies are focusing on improving diagnostic procedures, particularly video otoscopy with high-resolution cameras, which allow for more detailed visualization of the ear canal and facilitate documentation for follow-up checks. A promising area of research is the development of special instruments for minimally invasive removal of foreign bodies that can be used on awake animals and minimize the risk of injury. Scientists are also investigating new topical formulations with improved antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to promote faster healing after foreign body removal. Special attention is being paid to active ingredients that are also effective against biofilm-forming bacteria, which often play a role in chronic ear infections. Another research focus concerns the genetic factors that lead to an increased susceptibility to ear problems in certain dog breeds. In the long term, these findings could be incorporated into breeding programs to reduce prevalence. The connections between allergies, environmental factors, and susceptibility to foreign bodies in the ear canal are also being researched more intensively to optimize preventive strategies. The development of protective devices for dogs working in high-risk environments such as tall grass is another practical field of research. These innovations promise to make the diagnosis and treatment of foreign bodies in the ear canal even more effective and gentler in the future.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Which dog breeds are particularly susceptible to foreign bodies in the ear canal?
Breeds with drooping ears such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, or Beagles are particularly at risk as the ventilation of the ear canal is restricted. Long-haired breeds like Shih Tzus or Yorkshire Terriers are also especially vulnerable, as hair can additionally grow into the ear canal. - Can I remove a foreign body from my pet’s ear myself?
I strongly advise against self-treatment attempts, especially for deeper-seated foreign bodies. Improper manipulation can lead to injuries of the ear canal or eardrum and worsen the situation. - How can I tell if my pet has a foreign body in its ear?
Typical signs include sudden intense head shaking, increased scratching at the ear, tilting of the head, redness of the ear flap, and occasionally a foul-smelling discharge from the ear canal. - How long does healing take after removing a foreign body from the ear?
In uncomplicated cases with early treatment, complete healing can be expected within 1-2 weeks. In cases of complications such as deeper infections or eardrum injuries, the healing process can take several weeks. - What preventive measures can I take to avoid foreign bodies in my pet’s ear?
Check your pet’s ears regularly, especially after walks in tall grass or grain fields. For long-haired breeds, regular trimming of hair around the ear opening can be helpful. Avoid improper ear cleaning with cotton swabs. - Can a foreign body in the ear lead to permanent hearing damage?
Yes, if a foreign body remains untreated for a long time or injures the eardrum, it can lead to permanent hearing damage. Plant foreign bodies, in particular, can damage deeper structures of the ear through their migration. - How often should I clean my dog’s ears?
The frequency of ear cleaning depends on the individual predisposition to ear problems. For healthy ears without excessive earwax production, cleaning every 2-4 weeks is sufficient. Dogs with recurrent ear problems may require more frequent cleanings as directed by a veterinarian. - What are the differences in foreign bodies in the ear between dogs and cats?
Cats are generally less affected by foreign bodies in the ear canal than dogs, as they are more selective in their choice of environment and groom themselves more intensively. Additionally, their ear canal is anatomically different. Ear mites are more common triggers of ear problems in cats. - Can chronic ear inflammation be related to an overlooked foreign body?
An undetected foreign body is a common cause of therapy-resistant, chronic ear inflammations. For recurrent or therapy-resistant ear problems, a thorough otoscopic examination should always be performed. - Are certain seasons particularly risky for foreign bodies in the ear?
Yes, especially in late spring and summer, when grasses and grains form their seeds, the risk of plant-based foreign bodies like awns increases. During this time, pet owners should be particularly vigilant and regularly check their animals’ ears.
Literature
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O.: Emergencies in Dogs and Cats – A Veterinary Guide, Kynos-Verlag 2021, 208 pp.
- https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/profi/hals-nasen-ohren-krankheiten/aussenohrerkrankungen/gehörgangsobstruktion by Kessler, BW.
- Paterson S, Tobias K. Atlas of Ear Diseases of the Dog and Cat. 2nd ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 2020.
- Saridomichelakis MN, Farmaki R, Leontides LS, Koutinas AF. Aetiology of canine otitis externa: a retrospective study of 100 cases. Veterinary Dermatology. 2022;33(1):e12-e19.
- Tambella AM, Attili AR, Beribè F, et al. Management of otitis externa with an led-illuminated otoscope and optical coherence tomography. Veterinary Sciences. 2020;7(4):134.
The examination of a dog’s ear with an otoscope in a veterinary practice
The seed heads of wild oats are common foreign bodies in the external ear canal of dogs