The love you have for your pets helps you stay attuned to their behaviors and eccentricities. So when you observe your dog pawing his ears or shaking his head, you pay special attention. At 1st Pet Veterinary Centers, we understand that even a minor ear infection in your pet needs prompt treatment. Our Phoenix, AZ and East Valley clinics are ready to examine and treat your dog or cat for minor or major ear infections. How do you know if your pet has an ear problem?
Pay Attention to the Warning Signs
Ear infections are more common for dogs than cats, although both species can display symptoms. In cats, such infections may be a result of a separate medical problem. In dogs, ear infections can occur from any of several potential triggers.
Ear Infections in Dogs
If your dog enjoys swimming or playing in water, excess water in the ear canal can breed bacterial infections. Additionally, dogs with allergies may have more frequent ear infections.Foxtails, a common weed in Arizona, like to migrate into ear canals of dogs and can result in punctured eardrums as well as infection. No matter the case, watch for these signs of dog ear infection:
- Unusual odor or discharge from the ear
- Tilting the head to one side
- Red or swollen areas
- Head shaking
- Rubbing ears with paws (or against other objects)- your dog may whine or moan when doing so
Ear Infections in Cats
Although cats can also have allergies or bacterial infections, your vet may find other causes for your cat’s ear infection. Watch for these common signs of cat ear infection:
- Excess earwax near the ear canal
- A yellow or dark discharge, or a discharge that looks like coffee grounds
- Ear flap swelling or redness
- Head tilting or shaking
- Pawing the infected ear
- Strong odors
Visit 1st Pet for Prompt Care
If you are concerned about any of the signs of pet ear infection, please call us to schedule an appointment for an examination.Our Phoenix, AZ locations make it convenient for you to bring your pet in for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Once we have determined the cause, we will prescribe the necessary pet ear infection treatment. Contact us today at any of our three locations; we are here, ready to help your pet get back to normal again.
