Question: What is a dog or cat ear infection?
Answer: There are three types of ear infections, inner ear, middle ear, and outer ear. They are caused by yeast, bacteria, ear mites, a infection in a different part of the body, debris in the ear, accumulated ear wax, and improper drainage.
Question: What are the symptoms of a ear infection in my cat or dog?
Answer: Shaking the head, tilting the head, or scratching the ears excessively, Red and inflamed skin, bad odor, yellowish or black discharge, or crusty brown buildup in the ears.
Question: How can I be sure my pet has a ear infection?
Answer: If you suspect your pet has a ear infection it is best to go to your local vet for a diagnoses, to make sure that you are using the right medications for your pet. There may be dangerous debris in the ear that could cause damage to or rupture the eardrum. The vet may do lab tests and microscope analyses of your pets ear discharge to determine what will work best. They will then suggest a combination of the three most effective treatments.
Question: How can I treat the ear infection in my dog or cat?
Answer: It is important to remember the longer that the infection is present the harder it will be to get rid of. Topical applicants: Drops or ointments applied directly into the ear. Shot or injection: A antibiotic , antifungal , or anti-inflammatory medication that can be done at the home regularly. Tablets or by mouth: A antibiotic , antifungal , or anti-inflammatory medication that can be given by mouth at the home regularly. Make sure to clean the ear thoroughly before applying topical meds, and to clean regularly while giving any medication. Infections should clear up in 4-6 weeks and you may be asked to limit the activity of your pet.
Question: Why does my pet have recurring ear infections?
Answer: Most likely allergies are the cause.
Question: How can I prevent future ear infections in my pet?
Answer: Cleaning regularly and thoroughly with a proper ear cleanser will help prevent most ear infections and mite infestations. ***Click to see how to clean my pets ear***