Ear Problem

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alquamarim

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I was just wondering if anyone had experience of an ear problem?

My horse has been reluctant for me to touch his ear for a few days, he is now holding it a bit funny, as if irritated and last night when I tried to feel it I couldn't be sure but thought there was a bit of a squelchy noise.

Should I get the vet out and what could it be?

I can't get near it to take a good look inside because no way does he want me to touch it. It would need to be a sedation job.

I've searched the net but it seems that ear problems in horses are quite rare
 
Just a thought, are you sure it is his ear causing the problem? I have just booked the McTimmoney lady for Che to have his six monthly check up and am sure his poll is a little out as he wont let me touch his left ear without a fuss at the moment. This is how he behaved last time when he had a slight misalignment of his axis? (think thats what she called it).
 
The most likely problem is ear plaques, they flare up worst at this time of year, its a fungal problem due to allergy to blackfly bites. They look like whitish plaques inside the ear once they get bigger. They can make horses very earshy. Royal vet college told me not to try to treat them with creams and potions as that can make them more ear shy than original prob. It can help to use ear covering fly mask and also split bridle in two at cheekpieces when putting it on, so you dont pull bridle over the ears, if it gets really bad.

But it might not be that, def should get vet opinion.
 
Thanks for the ideas.

He wears a fly mask with ears every day because he is very sensitive to flies.

Unfortunately his ears are quite furry inside so taking a look for aural plaque is tricky.

He has regular physio and was last seen about a month ago so I don't think it's his poll but I'll consider that as well.

I think all in all a vet visit is due.
 
Could be mites - my lad had that and the ears had a lot of discharge and he was unhappy aabout touching anywhere near them

So I got the vet out, sedated him and got it all properly washed out. Sorted and then some drops for a week
 
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