Ear Examination and Procedures
When ear infections become recurrent or do not respond to appropriate first-line treatments, we may recommend otoendoscopy, ear canal flushing and other treatments for dogs and cats. These procedures allow for a detailed assessment and treatment of the ear, helping to identify underlying causes and improve your pet’s response to ongoing therapy.
When Are Ear Examination and Procedures Recommended?
Advanced ear examination and flushing procedures are typically recommended for dogs and cats with recurrent, persistent or complex ear disease, particularly where infections are not responding as expected to routine treatment or where underlying causes need to be more thoroughly investigated.
This may include pets showing signs such as:
- recurrent ear problems or ear infections in dogs or ear problems, irritation or discharge in cats
- ongoing head shaking, ear scratching or discomfort
- discharge, odour or inflammation affecting the ear canal
- reduced response to previous treatments or frequent recurrence of ear disease
In many cases, these signs are associated with common conditions such as:
- dog allergies or cat allergies (environmental, food or flea allergy)
- ear disease in dogs or ear disease in cats
- skin infections in dogs or skin infections in cats
Advanced ear procedures allow for detailed examination of the ear canal, identification of underlying causes such as infection, inflammation, foreign material or structural changes, and more effective treatment through thorough cleaning and targeted therapy.
What Otoendoscopy and Flushing Involves
Otoendoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that uses an endoscope equipped with a light and camera to examine the ear canal in detail.
Patients are sedated, or placed under general anaesthesia if ear flushing is required.
The otoendoscope is gently inserted into the ear canal, allowing for a comprehensive view of the ear canal anatomy, eardrum, and any abnormalities such as tumours, polyps, or foreign bodies.
When flushing is performed, the procedure removes debris and infectious material, promoting a more favourable response to subsequent medical treatment.
This approach is particularly beneficial for chronic or severe ear disease, where thorough visualisation and cleaning are essential for effective management.
In some cases, additional treatments such as CO₂ laser surgery may be recommended to remove tumours, polyps, or abnormal tissue identified during the examination.
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Key Benefits of Advanced Ear Procedures
Advanced Technology
Our team uses state-of-the-art Storz endoscopy equipment with the latest High-Definition monitor, providing clearer visuals for more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Otoendoscopy Examination
Uses a lighted endoscope to inspect the ear canal thoroughly, allowing us to identify polyps, tumours, foreign bodies, or other hidden causes of chronic ear disease.
Therapeutic Flushing
Cleans the canal of wax, debris, and infection, helping medications work more effectively and supporting faster recovery.
Ongoing Care and Management
Once our clinicians have thoroughly examined and flushed the ear, ongoing care is essential to maintain ear health and prevent recurrence.
Follow-up appointments allow us to monitor healing, assess treatment effectiveness, and adjust medications if needed.
Depending on your pet’s condition, we may recommend additional treatments, such as CO₂ laser surgery, medical therapy, or topical medications, to support long-term recovery.
Home care guidance is provided, including cleaning techniques, medication administration, and signs to watch for that may indicate relapse.
With careful adherence to the therapy plan, many pets experience significant improvement in ear health, comfort, and overall wellbeing, helping prevent future infections and discomfort.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can ear infections come back after the procedure?
Chronic or recurrent ear disease may require ongoing management, including medications, home care, or additional procedures such as CO₂ laser surgery.
Follow-up appointments help prevent recurrence and keep your pet comfortable.
Is ear flushing safe for my pet?
Ear flushing is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove wax, debris, and infection safely. Before flushing, our clinicians carefully examine the ear canal and eardrum to ensure the procedure is appropriate for your pet. Your pet is closely monitored throughout to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
How do I care for my pet’s ears at home?
We provide personalised guidance on at-home ear cleaning, topical treatments, and signs of infection to watch for, ensuring your pet maintains healthy ears between visits.
Pricing
Initial consultation: $425
Revisit consultation: $205
Cytology: $99
Intradermal allergy testing: $900
All other fees discussed during consultation
Referring Vets
If you are a veterinarian referring a patient for this service, please use our referral form or contact our team with relevant history, previous test results, current medications and treatment response.