The incidence and microbiology of otitis externa of dogs and cats in New Zealand

Abstract

Abstract Extract Otitis externa, manifested by inflammation of the external auditory canal and associated excessive secretion of ear wax or discharge, is considered by many to be one of the most common problems encountered in small-animal practice in New Zealand. The condition is usually assessed on the amount, colour and sometimes consistency of the wax or discharge but in some cases can be diagnosed on the erythematous, oedematous or ulcerated appearance of the meatal epithelium. These clinical symptoms may be produced by a complex of: factors, ranging from the purely mechanical to the purely infectious.