Why Does My Pet Get Ear Infections?

Ear infections can be caused by many different factors.  Some breeds are more prone to them just because the way the ear falls to the side or the amount of hair in the ear, ear getting wet all the time from swimming or just genetics.  Some disease process can result in ear infections.   Did you know allergies can cause inflammation in the ear causing your dog or cat to scratch?  Let’s face it, no matter how many times you wipe their feet. There are bacteria and dirt hiding.

How can you tell your pet might have ear infections.? Constantly shaking their head, scratching their ears, smell from their ears or even discharge.  Some ear infections can get so bad that the ear is painful even to touch and can bleed because of the constant scratching.

Dogs/Cats with long ears or prone to ear infections should be checked at least once a week for brewing infections.  It’s easier to treat the faster you notice.  For prevention using an ear cleaning solution once to twice a week to help with the ph of the ear.  The cleaning solution is not a substitute for medication or coming to see us.

Written by Angie Waters, RVT