Candioli Actea Oto, 15 ml is an otic emulsion for cats and dogs from the Italian maker Candioli. It's used as a supportive product for external ear conditions with itching, redness, changes in bacterial and fungal flora, excess earwax and unpleasant odour. According to the manufacturer, the emulsion is ceruminolytic (dissolves wax), soothing and disinfecting, and helps restore the ear canal to a healthy state.
Ingredients
Lactoferricin, glycerophosphoinositol lysine (GPL), lilac extract, magnesium aluminium silicate, oleic acid, tocopherol, glycerin, arginine, polysorbate, ethylhexylglycerin, glycine hydrochloride and phenoxyethanol. Lactoferricin is a peptide with antimicrobial properties, GPL has a soothing effect, and oleic acid and glycerin soften wax for easier cleaning. It contains no antibiotics or steroids, so it suits regular care for predisposed animals.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Form | ear emulsion |
| Key ingredients | lactoferricin, GPL, lilac extract |
| Properties | dissolves wax, soothes, disinfects |
| Dosage | 4–8 drops per ear twice a day |
| Course | 10–20 days |
| For | dogs and cats |
| Volume | 15 ml |
| Maker | Candioli, Italy |
Pros
- No antibiotics or steroids. Suitable for course-based care.
- Dissolves wax. Makes ear cleaning easier.
- Soothes itching. GPL and lilac extract.
- An antimicrobial peptide. Lactoferricin.
- For dogs and cats. Dosed by size.
- Prevention. For animals prone to ear infections.
Cons
- A supportive product. Purulent ear infections need vet treatment.
- A high price. For 15 ml.
- A small bottle. With twice-daily use, it won't last a dog long.
- Not for a ruptured eardrum. Get an examination first.
How to use it
Put 4–8 drops into the ear, depending on the animal's size, twice a day and gently massage the base of the ear to spread the emulsion. Then let your pet shake its head and wipe away softened wax with a cotton pad — not a cotton bud. The recommended course is 10–20 consecutive days until the ear is clean and discharge stops. To open the bottle, pull the cap up while twisting it slightly towards the base. More on technique in how to clean your pet's ears and eyes.
When to see a vet
See a vet if there's pus or blood from the ear, a strong bad smell, the ear is hot and painful, or your pet tilts its head or loses balance. These signs may indicate a deep infection, ear mites or a ruptured eardrum and need diagnosis and medicated treatment such as Surolan. Dark, dry discharge resembling coffee grounds may be ear mites.
Who's prone to ear infections
Ear problems are most common in dogs with floppy ears — spaniels, basset hounds, retrievers — and dogs with hairy ear canals such as poodles. Allergic animals are also prone, as skin inflammation often affects the ears. For these pets, regular cleaning is important prevention, and with food allergies it's worth finding a suitable food — more in hypoallergenic dog food.
Actea Oto versus a regular cleaner
Regular ear cleaners are designed for routine cleaning of healthy ears, such as Aurikap. Actea Oto is a step up: for ears with redness, itching and excess wax, including as support during treatment. It isn't necessary for everyday cleaning of healthy ears.
Storage
Keep the bottle closed at room temperature, out of children's reach. Don't touch the ear with the bottle tip to avoid introducing bacteria.
Who it suits
Owners of dogs and cats with itchy, red ears and excess wax, and animals prone to recurrent ear infections. More products are in the eye, ear and skin care section.
Verdict
Candioli Actea Oto is an antibiotic- and steroid-free ear emulsion with lactoferricin, GPL and lilac extract that dissolves wax, soothes itching and helps restore ear canal health. Good for course-based care and prevention. The downsides are the high price for 15 ml and that in purulent infections it only supports a vet's treatment.
FAQ
How many drops should I use?
4–8 drops per ear depending on size, twice a day.
How long is the course?
10–20 days, until the ear is clean.
Does it contain antibiotics?
No, it contains no antibiotics or steroids.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, it's for dogs and cats.
Will it treat ear mites?
No, ear mites need an antiparasitic product.
Can it be used preventively?
Yes, the manufacturer recommends it for animals prone to ear infections.
What's the volume?
15 ml.
