Otoscopy

Otoscopy is a procedure that allows a veterinarian to closely examine your pet’s ear canal and eardrum using a specialized instrument called an otoscope. It is an important diagnostic and treatment tool for pets with painful, infected, or chronically inflamed ears.

Why Otoscopy Is Recommended Otoscopy may be recommended for pets with:
  • Ear pain or sensitivity
  • Head shaking or scratching at the ears
  • Redness, swelling, or discharge from the ears
  • Foul odor from the ear canal
  • Recurrent or chronic ear infections
  • Suspected ear foreign body (such as grass awns or debris)
In pets with significant pain or severe infection, a thorough ear exam may not be possible while awake.

Sedation or Anesthesia
  • Mild cases may be evaluated while your pet is awake or lightly sedated
  • Painful, severe, or chronic ear conditions often require sedation or general anesthesia to allow a complete and safe examination
Sedation or anesthesia ensures your pet’s comfort and allows us to fully assess the ear without causing stress or pain.

What the Procedure Involves

During an otoscopy, we will:

  • Examine the entire ear canal and eardrum
  • Identify foreign material, masses, or polyps if present
  • Assess for infection, inflammation, rupture of the eardrum, or structural changes

Ear Cleaning and Treatment

Otoscopy is often combined with a deep ear cleaning:

  • The ear canal is flushed to remove debris, discharge, and infection
  • Cleaning improves comfort and allows medications to work more effectively

Foreign Body Removal and Sampling

If a foreign object is identified, it may be removed during the procedure.

In some cases, samples may be collected for:

  • Cytology (microscopic evaluation of infection)
  • Culture and sensitivity testing
  • Biopsy of abnormal tissue, if indicated

Most pets are able to go home the same day following otoscopy.

Your pet may be sent home with:

  • Ear medications (drops or ointments)
  • Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications if needed
  • Instructions for home ear care

Temporary head shaking or mild discomfort may occur and typically resolves quickly.

  • Allows full visualization of the ear canal and eardrum
  • Improves diagnosis of chronic or recurrent ear disease
  • Enables thorough cleaning and treatment in one procedure
  • Reduces pain and stress compared to repeated awake exams

Contact a veterinarian if you notice:

  • Worsening pain or head shaking
  • Swelling around the ear or face
  • Persistent discharge or odor
  • Lethargy or loss of appetite

Our goal with otoscopy is to accurately diagnose ear disease, relieve pain, and create an effective treatment plan for long-term ear health. If you have questions about whether otoscopy is right for your pet, or what to expect from the procedure, please reach out, we’re happy to help.