Vestibulitis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Guide

What is Vestibulitis in Dogs?

Vestibulitis, more commonly known as vestibular disease, is an inflammation of the vestibular system, located in parts of the inner ear and brain that govern balance, coordination, vision, and hearing. This condition can severely affect a dog’s ability to maintain equilibrium, causing sudden and distressing symptoms.

Causes of Vestibulitis in Dogs

There are two main types of vestibulitis: central and peripheral vestibular disease. Peripheral vestibular disease is the more common type and involves inflammation of the nerves linking the inner ear to the brain. Central vestibular disease is rarer but more serious, originating within the brain or central nervous system.

Common causes of central vestibulitis include:

• Brain trauma or haemorrhage
• Inflammation or infection in the brain
• Brain tumours or cancerous lesions
• Ischaemic events (stroke-like episodes)

Causes of peripheral vestibulitis may include:

• Infections of the middle or inner ear
• Ruptured ear drum, often due to accidental trauma or ear cleaning
• Head injury such as from a fall or road accident
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Tumours or polyps in the ear canal
• Meningoencephalitis (inflammation of the brain and surrounding membranes)
• Adverse reactions to certain ear medications (e.g., gentamicin, neomycin)

Dogs Most at Risk

Certain dogs are more predisposed to vestibulitis. These include:

• Elderly dogs, as idiopathic vestibular disease is common in seniors
• Dogs prone to ear infections or chronic ear problems
• Dogs with untreated or undiagnosed hypothyroidism
• Puppies born with congenital vestibulitis, particularly in breeds like German Shepherd, Doberman, Akita, Cocker Spaniel, Fox Terrier, Tibetan Terrier, and Beagle

Recognising Symptoms of Vestibulitis

Symptoms often appear suddenly and can be quite dramatic, including:

• Head tilt and circling towards the affected ear
• Stumbling, difficulty standing or walking, and falling over
• Involuntary side-to-side eye movements (nystagmus)
• Dizziness and lack of coordination
• Drooling and occasional vomiting

If you notice these signs, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care to determine whether the vestibulitis is central or peripheral and to identify any underlying conditions.

Diagnosing Vestibulitis

Your vet will start with a physical examination, specifically inspecting your dog's ears with an otoscope to look for infection or injury. Blood tests may be done to evaluate thyroid function, and biopsies may be required if lumps are found.

For suspected central vestibulitis, imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans and possibly a spinal tap are used to identify brain conditions causing the symptoms. Additional tests may be conducted to rule out other neurological or infectious diseases.

Treatment and Care for Dogs with Vestibulitis

In severe or acute cases, hospitalisation may be necessary to provide supportive care such as intravenous fluids, hand feeding, and anti-nausea medications to manage vomiting. The treatment plan depends on the cause:

• Antibiotics for bacterial ear infections
• Discontinuing harmful ear medications
• Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism
• Surgical removal of polyps or tumours if present
• Referral to a specialist for central vestibulitis cases

Idiopathic vestibulitis in older dogs often improves within a few weeks, though some head tilt may remain permanently. During recovery, careful attention and adjustments at home can greatly aid your dog:

• Assist with feeding and drinking if uncoordinated
• Use a towel sling to support when walking outside to prevent falls
• Block access to stairs and help with car rides to avoid accidents
• Follow all medication directions closely
• Provide a bland, soft diet if the dog has been vomiting
• Remove sharp or hard furniture within reach to prevent injuries from falls

Promoting Responsible Ownership and Care

If your dog is suffering from vestibulitis, prompt veterinary intervention followed by dedicated supportive care at home is vital for recovery. Always choose reputable breeders when acquiring puppies to reduce the risk of congenital conditions, and keep up with routine veterinary check-ups to catch conditions like hypothyroidism early.

By closely monitoring your dog’s health and seeking early treatment for ear infections and other predisposing conditions, you can greatly improve the quality of life and reduce the severity of vestibulitis symptoms.

Summary

Vestibulitis or vestibular disease affects a dog’s balance system and can appear suddenly with severe symptoms. While causes range from ear infections to brain disorders, many dogs recover well with timely vet care and proper home support. Understanding the risks, recognising symptoms early, and ensuring effective treatment are key to helping your dog regain balance and comfort.