While many people have experienced ear infections, they can be an issue for pets as well. Pet ear infections can cause painful symptoms and may lead to complications if left untreated. If you're concerned about ear infections in your furry friend, bring your pet to Stanton Pet Hospital in Stanton, CA.
What Can Cause a Pet Ear Infection?
In dogs, ear infections are most likely to be caused by yeast or bacteria. Since moisture can help bacteria grow and spread, infections often occur when a dog's ears are wet for a long period. Puppies may also develop ear infections due to ear mites.
Ear mites can also be a source of ear infections in cats, as can allergens and environmental irritants. However, in some cases, an ear infection is a sign of a serious health issue, such as diabetes or an autoimmune disease. That's why treatment is so important when it comes to pet ear infections.
Symptoms of Ear Infections In Pets
Your pet doesn't have a way to communicate that it's in pain or distressed, which is why you should watch for potential signs of infection. While pets don't always show noticeable signs of an ear infection, there are some common symptoms, such as:
- Scratching or pawing at the ear
- Shaking the head
- Earwax buildup
- Dark discharge from the ear
- Swollen ears
- Redness
- Unusual odors
- Scabbing
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, it's best to have it looked at by a vet as soon as possible. While some infections will heal on their own, an infection can also cause your pet's eardrum to rupture. By acting quickly, you can relieve your pet's pain and reduce the risk of further damage.
Ear Infection Treatment
While these symptoms can indicate an ear infection, other issues can cause similar symptoms. Before your pet can receive treatment, a veterinarian will examine the ear canal to see if it's infected. We may take samples from your pet's ear so that they can be tested for yeast and bacteria.
If your pet does have an ear infection, medication can help manage the pain and treat the infection. While antibiotic ear drops are a common treatment, your vet may also prescribe an oral medication. We may also recommend an ear cleanser to remove bacteria from your pet's ear.
Visit Our Veterinarian in Stanton, CA
You can depend on Stanton Pet Hospital to keep your pet in good health. Whether you're worried about ear infections or other health issues, we can give your pet the care that it needs. Call our team today at (714) 828-5891 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.