If your pet has an ear infection, it may not only cause discomfort but can cause other health infections. But since your dog or cat won’t speak to tell you they have an infection, there are signs you can spot to seek treatment with a veterinarian at our animal clinic. If you are in Katy, TX, book an appointment with us at Grand Park Animal Clinic for treatment.
Causes of Pet Ear Infections
Unlike human ears that have a naturally horizontal orientation, a cat’s or dog’s ears are “L” shaped, which makes them susceptible to germs, dirt, and other debris. Some common causes of pet ear infections are bacteria, yeast, and ear mites in puppies. However, certain factors may predispose your cat or dog to ear infections. These may include:
- Foreign objects
- Wax build-up
- Excessive cleaning
- Injury to the ear canal
- Allergies
- Moisture creates a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive
- Heat
- Unknown growth
If you suspect your pet has an ear infection, book an appointment with a veterinarian at our animal clinic for a pet exam. Trying to treat the infection with home remedies may not work, putting your pet’s health at risk.
Symptoms of Pet Ear Infections
How can you tell your cat or dog has an ear infection? Keep your eyes peeled for the symptoms below:
- Swelling around the ear
- Smelly discharge
- Head tilting
- Itchiness
- Pawing at the affected ear
- Redness in the ear canal
- Scabs around the ear
- Whining due to discomfort
For severe eye infections, your dog may experience loss of balance, hearing loss, and walking in circles. Pet ear infections can be a symptom of a severe underlying condition.
How to Diagnose Ear Infections
Through a pet exam, your vet may observe the visible symptoms of ear infections. We examine your pet’s skin and eardrum to determine the cause and extent of the infection. We may also test the samples from the ear discharge to establish the cause of the infection. If your pet is in severe pain, we may sedate it before undertaking any examination.
Treating Pet Ear Infections
Antibiotics and eardrops may be prescribed if the cause of the infection is bacteria. Where allergy is the cause of the infection, we may prescribe antihistamines, but if a foreign object is the cause of the infection, removal may be the only solution, which is done when your pet is under anesthesia.
Follow through with the prescribed medication at home and avoid the ears from getting wet. Restrict swimming, and only use a wet cloth to clean the ears.
Get a Pet Exam for Pet Ear Infections from a Veterinarian at Our Animal Clinic
Suspect that your cat or dog has an ear infection? Book an appointment with Grand Park Animal Clinic serving Katy, TX, for a pet exam. We will help establish the cause of the infection and administer treatment. Call us at (281) 392-3127.
