Ear Problems for Pets

Is your pet constantly shaking his head or scratching his ears? Is there a nasty odor? Is his ear flap or inner ear red or inflamed? This can all be symptoms of an ear problem. Ear infections and disorders are not only bothersome and painful for your pet but can also be difficult to cure without the correct treatment.
Your veterinarian will examine the ear canal with an otoscope to determine what is causing the disorder.
This may require sedation or anesthesia if the ear is very painful or if the pet is not cooperative.
Yeast is by far the most common type of ear infection. Yeast infections are caused by moisture being trapped in the ear canal and is seen mostly in breeds with long or floppy ears. For instance, a Cocker Spaniel or Basset Hound would be more susceptible to a yeast infection over a breed that has pointed ears such as a German Shepherd or Doberman Pinscher.
Bacterial infections are the second most common ear disorder.
Allergies are a very common cause of ear problems. If there are recurring ear symptoms, allergy is almost certainly the cause. Environmental allergens such as pollen, molds, and house dust mites are usually to blame. Food allergy is also a common cause of ear problems. A food trial is the only method to determine if a food allergy is an etiology.
Ear problems are a malady your veterinarian sees on a regular basis. Most are healed with routine treatment, but some cases can be more challenging. It is important to have a thorough exam, appropriate treatment and a follow-up plan to check on progress and ensure complete recovery. In general, treatment often involves oral medicine, topical medicine, and ear cleansers. Unfortunately, ear and oral medications are sometimes difficult to administer but it is very important that the entire course is completed in order to rid the infection. Many “repeat” infections are cases that never truly healed.
Valencia Veterinary Center is located at 23928 Summerhill Lane in Valencia. For more information please call 661-263-9000 and visit www.bestvalenciavet.com.