Yeast Infection & Treatment From Your Cupertino Veterinarian

Yeast infections can make dogs and cats uncomfortable, but luckily, they are preventable. As a pet owner, it's your responsibility to check your pet's ears for yeast infections, recognize the signs of a yeast infection, and know what to do if your pet does become infected. At Pet Ear Care Center your Cupertino veterinarian helps pet owners care for the overall health and well-being of their pets. We can help prevent pet ear infections, and teach you the best ways to care for your pet if he or she gets an ear infection.

Yeast Under Microscope

Yeast Under Microscope

Yeast Causing Ear Infection

Reactive Ear Canal Caused By Yeast

What Are Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are a type of fungal infection that usually appears in the ears of pets. Dogs and cats can both get yeast infections, but this problem is most common in dogs that have long, floppy ears. Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers and dog breeds with similarly long ears are all at high risk for yeast infections.

When to See Your Veterinarian in Cupertino

If your pet has a yeast infection, you may notice a variety of changes in your pet's behavior and body. Some of the most common signs of yeast infections include:

• Crusty skin around the pet's ear.
• Waxy buildup inside the pet's ear.
• Red, irritated skin inside the ear.
• Unpleasant odor around the ears.
• Lack of balance when standing or walking.
• Excessive ear scratching.
• Swelling around the ears.
• Rubbing of the head on the floor.

If your pet displays one or more of these symptoms, your pet very likely has a yeast infection in the ear.

Causes for Yeast Infections

Yeast infections occur when bacteria grows in your pet's ear. This often occurs when water or dirt becomes trapped in the ear. This happens more frequently in pets that swim often and in pets that engage in messy outdoor activities.

Yeast Infection Prevention

There are many things that you can do to prevent your pet from getting more yeast infections, including:

• Dry your pet's ears after he or she goes swimming. Using a soft, absorbent towel to dry your pet's ears after he or she goes swimming will prevent dirt and water from becoming trapped in the ears.
• Clean your pet's ears. Use a cotton swab dipped in commercial ear cleaner to gently clean the interior of your pet's ears. Once you're done, dry your pet's ears with a clean, absorbent towel.
• Monitor your pet's diet. Sugary diets can encourage the production of yeast in your pet's ears.

Treatment of Yeast Infections With A Cupertino Veterinarian

To get your pet treated for yeast infections, contact your pet's veterinarian today. At Pet Ear Care Center in Cupertino, CA, we can help treat your dog's ear or cat's ear and clear away any infection. We can also help you find new ways to prevent ear infections from happening in the future. To find out more, contact your Cupertino veterinarian today!