Pet Ear Care

Signs of an Ear Infection and How to Care for Your Pets' Ears

Providing good pet ear care is important for preventing a wide range of ear problems. In fact, pet ear infections are one of the main reasons for veterinarian visits in West Des Moines. Knowing how to keep your pet's ears clean and how to identify common issues will help prevent the risk of more serious ear problems causing significant damage to your pets. Here is some information on common signs of an ear infection and caring for your pet’s ears.

pet ear care

Signs of Ear Problems

Good pet ear care means your pet’s ears should be clean and the inside should be pale pink. There should be no odor and the ears should not be sensitive to the touch. Keep in mind that some brownish tinted wax in the ears is normal and your pets may have hairs growing inside their ears. Fur on your pet's ears should reach the tip of their ear, but not fold over to the inside. If you notice any bare spots or crustiness on the outside of the ear, it may be a sign of mange, so your pet should visit the veterinarian for an exam. Common signs of pet ear infections may include:

  • Constant scratching
  • Red and inflamed skin inside the ear
  • A foul odor coming from the ear
  • Your pets continuously shaking their heads or tilting their heads to one side
  • Sensitivity to the touch

Tips for Good Pet Ear Care

One of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to pet ear care is that wet or moist ear canals can encourage an ear infection. An ear infection can be bacterial or fungal, which is why ensuring the inside of your pet’s ears are always dry is a healthy move. Other ways to ensure good pet ear health include:

  • Routinely checking your pet's ears, especially during days of high humidity, your interior heating is high, or the weather is warm. If there is any moisture, gently wipe the outer opening of the ear canal with cotton balls.
  • If you pets are panting excessively, be sure to check their ears for moisture.
  • If your pets enjoy swimming, make sure to dry the inside of their ears as soon as they get out of the water.

Remember that keeping your pet’s ears dry is one of the easiest ways to avoid the risk of ear infections, but it’s also important to routinely clean their ears. If you aren’t sure of the best way to clean their ears, talk with your veterinarian for suggestions on how to clean them successfully.

If you suspect your pet may have an ear infection, contact Ashworth Road Animal Hospital in West Des Moines by visiting us online or calling us at (515) 225-1807.

Our Location

HOURS OF OPERATION

West Des Moines Office

Monday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

West Des Moines Office

Monday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday
Closed