Ofloxacin is an otic solution that can be used in dogs that have ear infections. It is important to have a clear diagnosis prior to starting to administer this solution in your pet, as it may cause damage otherwise. Ear infections can become severe if left untreated and may even lead to deafness.
Ofloxacin Otic Solution
Ofloxacin is an antibiotic from the group of fluoroquinolones. It is administered in the form of an otic solution that is effective in eliminating bacterial infections.
Other fluoroquinolones similar to Ofloxacin include:
- Ciprofloxacin
- Gatifloxacin
- Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
- Lomefloxacin
- Norfloxacin
- Trovafloxacin
Ofloxacin is the treatment of choice for dogs with ear infections.
Symptoms of Ear Infections in Dogs
Before you get any type of treatment, it’s important to identify the dog’s problem. An ear infection will cause the following symptoms:
- Ear inflammation and the ear canal may be shut in some cases
- Severe itchiness, resulting in frequent scratching of the ear area
- Excessive wax production
- Discharges from the ears
- Head shaking
These symptoms may also point to a fungal infection, allergies, mites or mange, so a diagnosis is necessary.
Ofloxacin Dosage and Administration
The Ofloxacin otic solution will be administered with the help of a sterile ear dropper. The vet will recommend 3 to 5 drops for each ear, administered twice per day. Your vet will recommend a suitable concentration of otic solution for your dog.
You should learn how to administer the ear drops to your pet, especially if he hasn’t received any drops before. Some dogs may be uncooperative when they experience pain and you attempt to apply drops in the area that causes discomfort. You may need an assistant during the first few times you apply the drops. Make sure you are calm, so that your dog will also be calm. If your dog shakes his head before the solution enters the ears, you should reapply the drops.
Ofloxacin Use Cautions
Ofloxacin cannot be used in pets that have allergies to fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Ofloxacin shouldn’t be ingested or used in the dog’s eyes if you suspect an eye infection. You need to have a clear diagnosis prior to administering Ofloxacin in your pet. The symptoms of an ear infection may be similar to the symptoms of mange or other parasites that may affect the dog’s ears. Ofloxacin is not an effective mange treatment.
Ofloxacin shouldn’t be used if the ear drum is perforated. Don’t insert the dropper deep into the dog’s ears, as this may cause damage to the ear canal or the ear drum.
Make sure that the ear dropper you use is sterile, as otherwise you may end up causing additional infections.
Don’t administer Ofloxacin in pregnant or lactating dogs, as it may not be safe.
If your dog’s condition doesn’t improve after 1 week of Ofloxacin treatment, you need to notify your vet.