Ear infections aren’t fun for anyone. Dogs and cats included. And if not properly treated, ear infections can turn into a chronic issue, a long-term source of pain, and even result in hearing loss for your pet. In many cases, ear infections can’t be cured because they are part of a larger disease, like allergies. In those cases, try and keep pets more comfortable and treat the symptoms as best we can.
What causes ear infections?
Usually caused by allergies to pollen, ear infections can take on a life of their own and become very hard to treat, not to mention a stinky, painful mess!
A few other things that can contribute:
- Narrow ear canals
- Floppy ear shape
- Canal obstruction by growths or foreign objects
- Irritation caused by improper cleaning, ear mites, and moisture build-up.
How are ear infections treated?
For a better visual of the problem, visit your pet’s veterinarian. Typically, treatment starts with a good cleaning, an exam of the eardrum and ear canal, a culture of the organisms growing in the ear, and a check for ear mites. In some cases, anesthesia is needed for the best cleaning and exam, especially if the ear is painful.
If ear mites are present (mostly in cats, but dog can get them, too) you’ll see black, crumbly debris. To get fast relief from ear mites, try the PetArmor® Ear Mite & Tick Treatment for your dog or cat. Our formula works to kill ticks and ear mites in your pet’s ears and helps to provide them with the itching relief they need.
For routine cleaning, you can use the PetArmor® Ear Rinse safe for both dogs and cats. Our ear cleaning solution helps to ensure your pet’s ears are healthy with a dual-action rinse that kills yeast and odor-causing bacteria while gently cleaning away dirt, wax, and damaged tissue. The easy-to-squeeze bottle makes it easy to apply safely and effectively. Make sure to clean their ears outside, as your dog will shake his head to try and get the solution out.
For chronic and frustrating cases, they will require surgery to remove the ear canal (a procedure called a total ear canal ablation, or TECA). These dogs can’t hear anyway due to the chronic damage, so this procedure makes them more comfortable and less smelly.
If problems continue to arise with your pet’s ears, make sure to take them to a vet to receive professional care.
