Zymox(®) Ear Solution is an antibacterial otic cleanser for dogs containing natural enzymes and 0.5% hydrocortisone (a type of corticosteroid) which helps to fight inflammation and itching. The product is applied directly into the ear canal and attacks debris, bacteria and collections of pus, killing nasty microorganisms which are resistant to antibiotics. It is very effective for the treatment of yeast infections but is also a fantastic remedy for common bacterial infections including those caused by Pseudomonas and Staph amongst others. Owners should note that while it is able to fight infection it does not contain antibiotics.
Even if there is no infection the solution can be applied for general cleaning purposes in dogs of any age which helps to prevent infections and fight off foul odors.
Dosage & Instructions For Use
Note: Speak to your vet for approval before treating your dog with Zymox products.
The temperature of the liquid can be a little bit too cold for some dogs, you can let it rise to room temperature before use to make things more comfortable for your pet.
To apply the solution begin by shaking the bottle well then tilt your dog’s head away from you, lift up their ear flap (do one side at a time) and squeeze a good amount of liquid into the canal. There is no set dosage, just apply a good squirt but don’t be excessive. Once you have done this, do not yet release your dog to shake their head, first you will need to massage the area to make sure the liquid makes it way down the canal. Gently lift up the ear so it is pointing towards the ceiling and begin to massage along the sides working your way up towards the base. You should hear the liquid sloshing around as you do this.
After about a minute of massaging the area release your dog. Usually they will immediately shake their head. At this point you can get out your wipes (cotton wool balls work well for this purpose) and wipe out all of the grime and excess which should have risen towards the top. The video below should make things clearer.
Avoid pre-cleaning prior to use as this could stop the enzymes from doing their job.
Used for… | Suggested protocol |
---|---|
General purposes | Once daily for one week |
Chronic infections | Once daily for two weeks |
Is It Safe?
There are two main ingredients, enzymes and hydrocortisone. The enzymes are natural and very safe, and the added hydrocortisone is also safe but is a type of steroid. The manufacturer states that you can use this product regularly when infection persists, but we recommend talking to your vet if symptoms don’t improve after 14 days.
It’s a good idea to talk to the vet before use just to make sure Zymox is the best option for your pet, as there are some types of infection which would require a different course of action.
Guidelines For Use
We recommend following these guidelines:
- Speak to your vet to discuss whether this cleanser is the best choice for your dog
- Do not use on punctured ear drums and avoid contact with the eye area
- Avoid pouring water into the ear during application
- Speak to a vet if symptoms don’t improve after fourteen days
If water does somehow get in your dog’s ears you will need to repeat the application and cleaning process. This product is safe to use on dogs of all ages.
What Is It Used For?
It can be used for the following purposes:
- General cleaning
- Fighting bacterial infections
The following forms of bacteria are good candidates for treatment: Malassezia, Pseudomonas, Proteus and Staph.
Side Effects
Side effects aren’t expected but in rare cases the area treated could become red and swollen. If this occurs or if symptoms worsen or fail to show signs of improvement after 14 days of using the product once daily discontinue use and contact the vet for advice.
Sources
Official Zymox website