Pet Ear Infections

Pet ear infections are common at Richview Animal Hospital in Etobicoke. When we see patients with these infections, the pet owner is often upset because they can't figure out what they are doing wrong that may have caused the infection. In most cases, the pet owner didn't do anything wrong. Floppy-eared dogs are the most prone to ear infections, but ear infections can be an issue for all dogs and cats.

What Causes Pet Ear Infections?

We can't always determine the cause of an ear infection. In some cases, moisture has been trapped in the ear and this provides a breeding ground for bacteria. In other cases, an allergy may have created an environment that turns into an infection. In most cases, the exact cause can't be found but our veterinarian may be able to determine the cause by examining your pet and getting a medical history.

Veterinary Care to Treat Ear Infections

Your veterinarian will gently clean your pet's ears and test to see what type of infection is present. Once that is determined, normal treatment is done by using medicated ear drops that are gently massaged into the ear canal. You may be required to use pet ear drops at home until the infection is clear but the veterinary staff will show you exactly how to do this.

Tips to Lessen Ear Infections

While there is no way to completely prevent pet ear infections, there are some things you can do to lessen the chances of your pet being affected by them.

1. Use cotton in your dog's ears when they swim. This will help prevent excess water from entering the ear canal. After swimming, use cotton to dry out the inner ear.

2. Keep the outer ear canal clean. Regularly use a damp cloth to wipe away any debris and then make sure the ear is dry. Don't ever use anything that pokes back into the canal or that can push debris back into it.

3. Keep excess ear hair trimmed so it doesn't become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Richview Animal Hospital Wants to Help

The veterinarian at our Etobicoke animal clinic is always willing to treat an ear infection before it becomes a problem. In most cases, veterinary ear infections are a one-time thing. Some pets, however, do experience recurring infections and we can help you figure out what may be causing this to happen. Don't attempt to treat any suspected ear infections at home. Set up an appointment with us today at (416) 245-8805 if you suspect your furry friend is ill and we will gladly get him back to health.