Ear Infection In Dogs
Ear Infection is one of the most common canine and feline health problems in pets. It is most commonly caused by excessive hair, ear mites, wax or moisture, bacteria, food allergies, bad hygiene, hypothyroidism and other environmental factors.
Warning Signs That Your Dog May Have An Ear Infection
Ear infection in dogs should be treated immediately when recognized. As a pet parent, you should be constantly watching for signs that your dog’s ear may be infected. Here are some symptoms that your dog ears need checking.
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- Scratching of the ear or area around the ear
- Rubbing of the ear and surrounding area on the floor or furniture
- Odor in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Crusts or scabs on inside of the outer ear
- Head shaking or head tilt
- Loss of balance
- Walking in circles
- Unusual eye movements
Which Dog Breed Are More Prone Ear Infections
Ear infections are most common in dogs with floppy ears that do not get enough air. Moisture and dirt particles can get trapped in the ear and an infection can quickly form if you are not careful.
Both fungus and yeast are common factors in ear infections due to the closed environment of a floppy eared dog. Cocker Spaniels, bloodhounds, beagles, dachshunds, and other floppy eared dogs should be checked regularly for signs of potential infection.
How Can An Ear Infection In Your Dog Be Prevented
To avoid ear infections, check your dog’s ears regularly for signs of an odor or abnormal discharge of wax. If your dog’s outer ear appears dirty, clean gently with a cotton ball dampened with a solution suggested by your veterinarian. After baths and swimming, be sure to dry your dog’s ears thoroughly. Excessive hair around the outer ear canal should be be removed. And remember not to use anything with a sharp end around your dog’s ears.
If your dog gets an ear infection, see a vet immediately as the chance that it could spread to the middle or inner ear. Infection is too dangerous to wait on. Inner ear infections can spread to other parts of the body or create a damaging high fevers.
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