Most pet parents can recognize the symptoms of various ear infections in pets. Head shaking, scratching, and whining are the primary indications of an ear infection. Ear infections have become prevalent among dogs these days. But fortunately, various ways help you address your dog’s ear infections. This write-up will outline the various ear infections among the canine, their symptoms, causes, and medication.
Ear infections in pets have three categories, namely interna, media, and otitis. Out of these three, the most common is the otitis externa, which is quite dangerous. This infection adversely impacts the ear canal’s layer of the cell lining in the external portion of a pet’s ear. At the same time, otitis media and interna are the ones that mainly occur in the inner ear canal of dogs. These infections often occur because of the external eye infections that spread around their ear. In such a scenario, it’s always better to consider vet surgeons. Interna & otitis media infections can also lead to facial paralysis, deafness, and vestibular signs.
What Are the Symptoms of Ear Infection In Canines?
Most dogs don’t show any symptoms. However, they may experience discharge and buildup of wax in the ear canal. Your pet may have the following common symptoms:
- Itchiness
- Pain
- Foul odor coming from their ear region
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal
- Dark discharge
- Scratching at the affected ear
- Head-shaking
- Ear scabbing
Reasons Behind the Ear Infection in Pets
Did you know that the ear canal of canines is much more vertical than humans, formulating the L-shape that consistently holds the fluids? That’s why dogs are likely to encounter more ear infections. The infections in the ear are majorly caused due to yeast, bacteria, or perhaps a combination of both. Additionally, ear mites can also be a reason for serious ear infections among puppies. The most common factors leading to the ear infection in puppies are mentioned below:
- Moisture develops the environment for bacteria and yeast.
- Allergies
- Wax buildup
- Injuries to the ear canal
- Autoimmune disorders
- Excessive cleaning
How Can You Prevent the Canine’s Ear Infection?
As we have already discussed, excessive exposure to moisture is the primary reason for the ear infection. That’s why you should always let your dog’s ear dry post swimming and bathing. You should regularly clean your dog’s ear to address various infections. Alongside, ensure that you don’t use paper towels and cotton because the fiber left in their ears may lead to infections.
Final Words
Here we have highlighted the symptoms, causes, and treatment of ear infections in pets. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, you can reach out to the experts at DCC Animal Hospital to clearly and concisely understand the dog’s ear infections. You can also explore the pet care and surgery services or just pet surgery services at the DCC Animal Hospital’s website. Regular checkups are most advised to curb situation at at a nascent stage.
