Whether they\u2019re floppy, fuzzy, folded, or standing upright, our pets\u2019 ears are some of their cutest features. These pet-able appendages, however, can become infected, causing cats and dogs a considerable amount of pain and discomfort. Different types of ear infections include bacterial, fungal, vector-borne, or a combination. Understanding the common causes of these types of ear infections in dogs and cats will help you recognize infections and even prevent them altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pets with allergies of all kinds (environmental, food, and fleas) are more likely to suffer from frequent ear infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A warm, moist, and dark place is the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, making a wet pet\u2019s ears the perfect location. To prevent your pets from getting ear infections, be sure to gently dry their ears after swimming and baths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With their cute, furry folds and tucks that expertly trap moisture, floppy pet ears are more prone to infection than those that stand upright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ear mites are small parasites that most commonly afflict kittens and puppies. These teeny bugs are difficult to see. Pet owners usually first notice small traces of ear mites that look similar to coffee grounds inside a pet\u2019s ears. Itchy ear mites cause scratching and head shaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Underlying infections and chronic health conditions such as thyroid and autoimmune disorders can also put pets at an increased risk of ear infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of an ear infection include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best way to prevent your pets from getting ear infections is to keep their ears clean and dry. If you suspect your dog or cat has an ear infection, we encourage you to schedule a house call appointment with Capital Home Veterinary Care right away. Our veterinarian will examine your pet, handle any necessary diagnostics tests, and determine the underlying cause of infection. We will then provide you with further instructions for treatment and prevention, which will vary depending on the reason for the infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To schedule an appointment for your pet or to learn more about at-home sick pet appointments and wellness exams, contact us today.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Understanding the common causes of ear infections in dogs and cats will help you recognize infections and prevent them from happening in the future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1547,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[45,30,22,27,46],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1542","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-allergies","category-cats","category-common-pet-health-concerns","category-dogs","category-ear-infections"],"yoast_head":"\n