**Register Now: Upcoming Webinar on March 26th: Ear Health & Common Ear Problems in Dogs and Cats
Chronic ear infections in dogs and cats can make them miserable—but did you know that proper dog ear cleaning is just as important as medication? Yeast infections in dog ears, bacterial ear infections in dogs and ear mites in cats can all lead to discomfort, itching and irritation. If your pet has itchy, smelly, or irritated ears, there’s a right way to help. In this Vet Minute, Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Marty Greer talks about reoccurring ear infections in dogs and cats and discusses the best pet ear care routine to keep their ears clean, healthy and infection-free!
Recurrent Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats
Constant ear infections in dogs and cats are common and often caused by yeast infections, bacterial infections or allergies. In cats, ear mites may also be a factor, though they rarely cause chronic problems in dogs. Because the ear canal is an extension of the skin, pets with allergies often experience recurring ear infections as part of an overall allergic response.
The Importance of Proper Ear Care
Effectively managing your pet’s ear infection involves both cleaning and medication. If debris builds up in the ear, medications can’t reach the source of the infection and may not work as intended. A thorough ear-cleaning routine ensures that treatments can be fully effective.
How to Clean Your Pet’s Ears
- Use Vet Basics® Ear Flush first – Apply the flush, let it sit for about 5 minutes, then wipe away any loosened debris.
- Follow with Vet Basics® Ear Cleansing Solution – An ear cleaner helps remove any remaining buildup and prepares the ear for treatment.
- Once dry, apply vet-prescribed medications – These target yeast, bacteria or mites to resolve the infection.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your pet shows signs like discharge, odor, excessive scratching, head shaking, or discomfort when their ears are touched, it’s time to contact your veterinarian. They can determine the underlying cause and provide the appropriate treatment.
By combining regular ear cleaning with the right medications, you can help keep your pet’s ears healthy, comfortable and infection-free.
If you have more questions about chronic ear problems in dogs and cats, call us at 800.786.4751.
**Register Now: Upcoming Webinar on March 26th: Ear Health & Common Ear Problems in Dogs and Cats
LEARN MORE:
Ear Infection in Dogs and Cats
How do I treat my dog's ear infection? What are the signs of an ear infection in a dog or cat? Learn cat and dog ear infection symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention.
Ear Mites in Cats and Dogs
Does my cat have ear mites? How do you get rid of ear mites in dogs and cats? Can ear mites cause ear infection in cats? Learn symptoms and treatment of ear mites in cats and dogs.
Environmental Allergies in Dogs and Cats
How do I know if my dog has an environmental allergy? Why are my dogs ears and eyes itchy? Environmental allergies are caused by irritating substances in a dog or cat's environment. Learn how to treat environmental allergies in dogs and cats and protect your pet's skin.
How to Clean a Dog’s or Cat’s Ears
What can I use to clean my dog's ears at home? Regularly cleaning your pet's ears is crucial for ear health and can help prevent ear disease, ear infection and ear mites. Here are 4 easy cat and dog ear cleaning steps.
Written by: Marty Greer, DVM
Director of Veterinary Services
Marty Greer, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has 40+ years’ experience in veterinary medicine, with special interests in canine reproduction and pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1981. She’s served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services since 2019. In 2023, Dr. Greer was named the Westminster Kennel Club Veterinarian of the Year.