Ear inflammation and infections in Pets, Dogs and Cats

Ear infections can be uncomfortable for your pet. Although any dog or cat can get an ear infection, some breeds appear to be more prone than others. Dogs with pendulous ears, like Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, or dogs with hairy inner ear flaps, like Miniature Poodles and Schnauzers, tend to have a higher occurrence of ear infections. In cats, the Persian breed seems to be more prone to such infections.

Your dog or cat will show his discomfort by shaking his head or scratching at his ears. Often, the ears will become red and inflamed with an offensive odor and perhaps a black or yellowish discharge. If your pet tilts his head constantly, it could be a sign of a middle ear infection.

The sooner we see the pet with an ear infection, the easier the treatment may be.  Most ear infections are easily and successfully treated. But if left untreated, they could result in serious damage.  Please give us a call if you suspect your pet might have an ear infection.

Symptoms of ear infections include:

• Odor or discharge from the ear
• Scratching or shaking of the head or ears
• Soreness
• Swelling of the ear flap