One of the most common reasons for veterinary exams for dogs and cats is for the presence of ear inflammation, otherwise known as otitis externa. Common symptoms of otitis externa include shaking of the head, itching of the ears, as well as the development of redness, swelling and/or odor and discharge of the ears. The condition may present on one or both sides, and may fluctuate between the left and right […]
“When the itch is inside the boot, scratching outside provides little consolation” ~ Old Chinese Proverb. Although ear mites are extremely itchy, they generally do not infect an area that cannot be reached. The problem is that continuously scratching the ear for that bit of consolation may cause a severe secondary bacterial skin infection. The best way to provide any lasting relief for the itch that accompanies ear mites is […]
I find the best way to clean a pet’s ears is to obtain a water-soluble solution that contains drying agents such as salicylic acid. I find that these agents are often most effective in breaking and drying up the wax and discharge that may develop especially in floppy eared dogs, and which is often is responsible for the development of secondary bacterial and yeast infections. One of my favorite ear […]
Recurrent ear infections in pets can have many possible causes. Rather than just prescribing more topical antibiotic/steroid medications like Mometamax or Otomax, it is important for animal guardians and veterinarians to look at underlying causes to avoid frustrating relapses and repeat veterinary visits.Many animal guardians will often erroneously think that their animal companions have ear mites; however, ear mites can be easily ruled out by having the ear discharge examined […]
Zymox Otic is one of my favorite nonprescription ear topical medications that works wonderfully for many acute and chronic ear problems in dogs and cats. This product contains natural enzymes that help inhibit bacterial growth often involved in ear infections. Most commonly bacterial ear infections are secondary to underlying allergies in affected pets. Ear problems are amongst the most frustrating problems to clear up and often recur in many pets. This often […]
If you own a floppy eared dog such as a Golden Retriever, Basset Hound, or Beagle, you know they can often develop waxy and smelly ears. Many pet owners frequently visit the veterinarian to treat secondary yeast or bacterial infections that often accompany allergic conditions as well. In such dogs prone to recurrent ear infections, it is often helpful to use topical preparations that can allow the development of an […]
This week we highlight questions asked by our PetMeds Facebook fans and answered by Dr. Dym. Both my labs get ear mites/infections on a regular basis. I clean them regularly with ear cleanser then drying lotion. Is there anything more I can do or maybe something stronger I can use to completely get rid of it? One of the most common frustrating dermatological problems in our pets is the recurrence […]
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