Ear inflammation/infection is a fairly common and annoying problem in both dogs and cats.

In many cases there are underlying causes such as inhalant allergies to molds, grasses, dander, pollen, etc., as well as food allergies to ingredients in commercial pet foods.

Some dogs even have underlying low thyroid levels, which can predispose them to recurrent ear infections.

It is important that your veterinarian address these potential underlying causes or the problem will recur.

The signs of an ear infection/inflammation include shaking of the head or holding the head to one side, scratching or rubbing the ears, the presence of a yellow, brown or black discharge in the ears, a bad smell in the ears or tenderness, redness or hot ears. Vigorous scratching can break blood vessels in the earflap, causing the entire ear to swell.

These ear hematomas must usually be treated by surgical drainage. Watch out for head tilting, clumsiness, or walking in circles, as these can be signs of an inner ear infection, which needs immediate treatment by your veterinarian.

There are several home remedies that can sometimes help minimize discomfort in our pets, and that can sometimes also be used as a preventative measure for pets with recurrent problems.

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