Articles
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Ear canal tumors are abnormal growths that can develop from any part of the ear canal (the skin, the glands of the skin that produce earwax and oil, and the underlying connective tissues, muscles, and bones). Initially, these tumors may appear as one or more pink, white, or purple nodular masses in the ear canal. If benign, they may grow to a certain size and may or may not be problematic. If malignant, they may grow, ulcerate (break open) and bleed, and nearly always become infected, causing recurrent or chronic ear infections. The treatment of choice for ear canal tumors is surgical excision.
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Ear cleansing/drying products are used over-the-counter to treat and prevent ear infections in many species of pets. They come as a liquid solution that is used topically within the ear canal and are typically used in the ears after debris and wax have been removed using a cerumenolytic cleanser.
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Ear infections are less common in cats than dogs, and it is essential to determine the underlying cause. Ear mites are the most common cause, but tumors or foreign bodies may also be present. The prognosis is good if the underlying cause is diagnosed and treated.
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The ear mite is a surface mite that lives on cats, dogs, rabbits, and ferrets. It is usually found in the ear canal, but can also live on the skin surface. Mites are barely visible to the naked eye. Clinical signs of infestation may include ear irritation leading to scratching at the ears or head shaking, dark discharge from the ear, areas of hair loss from self-trauma, a crusted rash around or in the ear, or aural hematoma.
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Echinacea, also known as the purple coneflower, is a dietary supplement made from the Echinacea plant, and is primarily used for immune system support, as an anti-inflammatory, or to shorten the duration of upper respiratory conditions. It is most often used in dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses.
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Echinococcosis refers to being infected with a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus and is primarily a parasite of coyotes and foxes. Infected cats are usually asymptomatic, but in both cats and humans the parasite can cause large cysts to form within the lungs and liver. E.multilocularis is treated with praziquantel and in most cases the prognosis is good.
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Eclampsia, also referred to as hypocalcemia or puerperal tetany, is an emergency medical condition associated with a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that occurs in nursing mothers. Mothers that are especially attentive to their kittens seem to be more likely to develop eclampsia. Signs and treatment are discussed.
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Edetate calcium disodium (CaEDTA) is used for the treatment of lead and zinc toxicities when oral treatment is not possible. It may be used in all species of animals. Prior to treatment with edetate calcium disodium, it is imperative that the source of lead or zinc is removed from the animal through gastrointestinal decontamination.
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Edetate disodium (EDTA) ophthalmic is used to dissolve calcium deposits in the corneas of the eyes in cats, dogs, and other animals. It must be specially compounded. This medication is used off label in veterinary medicine. EDTA ophthalmic comes in liquid drop suspension form.
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An electrocardiogram, or ECG, is a test that is used to assess the heart. More specifically, an ECG records the transmission of an electrical impulse through the heart. This test is not painful and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Analyzing the electrical impulses produced as the heart beats can help identify a number of different abnormalities within the heart.