Ear Health
Relieve your pet's ear infections with expert guidance and treatment from home. Symptoms of ear infections include head shaking, scratching the ear, redness, odor, discharge and pain. Ear infections could be caused by bacteria, yeast, ear mites, or allergies. Medications such as antibiotics and antifungal treatment can help, depending on the underlying cause.
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Common Questions For Dogs
Symptoms of ear infection in dogs
Common signs of an ear infection in dogs include frequent ear scratching, head shaking, redness or swelling in the ear canal, and a foul odor. You might also notice discharge that can range from yellow or brown to pus-like. If your dog seems to be in pain when you touch their ears, it's time to visit the vet.
Causes
Ear infections in dogs can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or a combination of both. Contributing factors include moisture trapped in the ear canal (often from swimming or bathing), allergies, foreign objects, and even excessive earwax buildup. Certain breeds with floppy ears or narrow ear canals are more prone to these infections.
Can I treat my dog's ear infection at home?
While you can gently clean your dog's ears with a vet-approved solution, most ear infections require veterinary care. Your vet may prescribe medicated ear drops or antibiotics, depending on the severity and cause of the infection. Never use over-the-counter treatments without consulting your vet, as improper treatment can lead to complications.
Are certain breeds more prone to ear infections?
Yes, breeds with long, floppy ears (like Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels) or narrow ear canals (like Bulldogs) are more prone to ear infections. Breeds prone to allergies, such as Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, are also at higher risk.
How can I prevent my dog from getting ear infections?
Regular ear cleaning, especially after swimming or bathing, is key to preventing infections. Keep your dog's ears dry and clean, and work with your vet to manage any underlying allergies. Regular grooming and trimming hair around the ears can also help reduce the risk.
Common Questions For Cats
What causes ear infections in cats?
Ear infections in cats can be caused by several factors, including ear mites, bacterial or yeast infections. Environmental factors, such as exposure to allergens or irritants, can also contribute to the development of an ear infection.
What are the symptoms of an ear infection in cats?Â
Common signs that your cat might have an ear infection include:
Excessive scratching at the ears
Frequent head shaking or tilting
Discharge from the ear, which might be black, dark brown, yellow, or green
A foul odor emanating from the ear
Redness and inflammation in the ear canal
Sensitivity or pain when the ears are touched These symptoms indicate discomfort and should prompt a visit to the veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment​.
Is an ear infection in cats contagious?
Ear infections themselves are not contagious, but the underlying causes, such as ear mites, are highly contagious to other cats. If ear mites are the cause of the infection, it’s important to keep the affected cat isolated from other pets until the infestation is cleared. Bacterial and yeast infections, however, are typically not contagious.
How are ear infections in cats treated?
Treatment for an ear infection depends on the underlying cause. For ear mite infestations, a single dose of prescribed medication may clear the problem. Bacterial or yeast infections often require ear drops, ointments, or oral medications prescribed by a vet. It's essential to follow through with the entire course of treatment, even if the symptoms appear to improve early on​.
Can ear infections in cats lead to more serious health problems?
If left untreated, ear infections can lead to serious complications such as permanent hearing loss, balance issues, or chronic pain. The infection can also spread deeper into the ear, leading to middle or inner ear infections, which are harder to treat and may require more intensive medical intervention. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as symptoms are noticed​.
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How EverPal works
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1
Book an online vet appointment
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2
In-home diagnostic testing
If testing is needed, our veterinary nurse team will stop by your home to collect a sample. Currently serving San Francisco, South San Francisco, Daly City, Oakland, and Berkeley.
3
Follow-up care
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4
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