Symptoms of Ear infection in cats and Dogs

1. Common Symptoms of Ear Infection in Cats and Dogs Have you noticed your dog scratching his ears with his paws and then smelling it? Or had he been rubbing his ear on the furniture? It is an indication that your dog may be suffering from an ear infection. Ear infections are primarily caused by bacteria and are categorized into otitis media (middle-ear inflammation) and otitis interna (internal ear inflammation). Sometimes, inflammation of the ear can be associated with dense hair growth in the ear which holds bacteria and causes inflammation. Excessive wax buildup can also lead to pain and inflammation in the ear. Furthermore, in some cases, the animal’s ear structure is slightly vertical and wide that makes it prone to holding dust and debris. Major causes of ear infection in Cats and Dogs are - Ear mites, Allergies, Hypothyroidism, Yeast and Fungal Growth, Dust, Debris, Pollen or Tumors.

2. A severe ear infection that expands to the inner ear can lead to partial or complete deafness in pets. So, it is important that the pet owners beware if the dog or cat shows any signs of infection. They may exhibit certain behavioral patterns or physical signs which are easy to notice. What are those? Read On. Physical Symptoms of Ear Infection in Cats and Dogs The most apparent symptoms linked to ear infections include: •Redness caused by inflammation in the ear •Stinky smell •Remarkable hair loss in the nearby region •Yellow-brown discharge •Scabs or crust formation near the ear or on ear flaps •Swelling in the ear canal •Grey bulging eardrum •Loss of balance •Paralysis or inability to blink eyes (in severe cases) •Vomiting •Noticeable pain while opening mouth •Unusual movement of eyes Behavioral Symptoms of Ear Infection in Cats and Dogs Ear infections are painful and can keep your pet consumed most of his time. He may seem irritated and annoyed. You can find him: •Scratching or rubbing his ears •tilting his head often •shaking •walking in circles •trying to get rid-off something •Reluctant towards eating or chewing If you see any of these signs, consult your vet immediately. Any delay or ignorance can lead to further damage and he might lose his hearing ability.

3. Prevention Grooming is important. In order to prevent ear infections, it is imperative to clean your pet’s ears regularly. Remove any wax build up and cleanse it with an otic solution to get rid-off any leftover wax or debris. Remove sugar from his diet as it may lead to yeast and fungal infection. Well, there are some breeds that have a natural predisposition to ear infections. They may include: •Beagles •Basset Hounds •Afghan Hounds •Cavalier •Cocker Spaniel •Shih Tzu Prevention of ear infection in these breeds is mandatory. Dietary supplements that provide apt nutrition and preventatives that restrain bacterial and fungal infections must be used year round. Whether your pet belongs to the breeds enlisted here or not, they are equally susceptible to catch ear infection through some means. Therefore, without any further thoughts, incorporate ear grooming session and a healthy diet plan in his regimen.