Dogs may become deaf because of injuries to structures in the ear that control sound transmission. The loss of hearing could result from infections in the ear, antibiotics, or damage to the tissues.
As most animals depend on other senses to flourish, most dogs suffering from hearing loss don’t show immediate signs of decline. Pet parents entering the home or shouting their pet’s name could be the first indication of hearing loss if the animal cannot react to sounds that usually signal them to the sound source.
Even if it’s due to age, it’s essential to bring your pet to the doctor if you think they’re becoming deaf. If the infection is severe, the ears may become extremely reddish and swollen. If a trauma or antibiotic poisoning is the reason for hearing loss, the symptoms could be less painful.
Causes of Hearing Loss in Dogs
When owners learn that their pets are deaf, they are understandably alarmed. In most cases, the cause is treatable or an inevitable part of aging, and the dog isn’t injured or killed. Deafness and hearing loss in dogs is discussed in this article, as are treatments to try with the help of your veterinarian.
1. Normal Aging
This hearing loss is referred to as sensorineural hearing loss. It’s usually permanently triggered by the loss and damaged sensory cells (hair cells) within the cochlea of the inner ear. The auditory nerve is damaged, resulting in loss of neural hearing that is typically permanent.
It is essential to determine if there are other causes for hearing loss before naming “old age” as the reason for hearing loss. These other issues are usually easily treated if they are caught early and treated appropriately. Go to a veterinary website like EastBayVetClinic.com to learn more information.
2. Ear Infection in Both Ears
Usually, a physical examination will reveal significant dirt inside the ear canal’s vertical. The dirt is examined under the microscope. The most common type of bacteria or yeast is often seen; however, ear mites are not often seen.
After the correct diagnosis is made, the most appropriate therapy to treat the disease can be determined. The condition is usually temporary and can be treated when the infection has led to hearing loss. Dogs with many ear infections might require a variety of treatments, which typically involve flushing the ear with a solution and administering the appropriate medication.
3. Hypothyroidism or Low Thyroid Disease
Since thyroid hormones affect various organ systems, hearing loss is a rare sign of hypothyroidism. It is vital to eliminate thyroid problems in dogs who suffer from hearing loss. All dogs with hearing loss must undergo tests for blood, which include an entire test for blood counts, an organ profile, and thyroid tests. Visit a veterinary diagnostic laboratory to get accurate lab testing results.
4. Cognitive Disorder
Hearing loss may be the result of mental disease. A lot of elderly dogs also had hypothyroidism and suffered from hearing loss. The thyroid supplements had a minimal impact on the dogs.
Phosphatidylcholine and antioxidants and fatty acids, Ginkgo Biloba, and other nutrients aid dogs suffering from cognitive disorders return to normal functioning. It is unlikely that a natural cure can be found since dogs suffering from mental problems tend to regress and become senile when medication is stopped. Always make sure your pet has their routine vaccinations.
5. Organic Brain Diseases
Other signs of organic brain disease in dogs, apart from hearing loss, are depression, seizures, and changes in cranial nerve function. Advanced imaging is essential for dogs to detect and treat the disease efficiently. The causes of hearing loss are costly and challenging to treat and diagnose; however, they are not common.
