Yeast ear infections can be a real problem for dogs living in hot and humid climates - even for just a few brief summer months - but you may be able to help prevent your dog from developing a yeast ear infection. Our Orange Park vets explain how.
Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs
Yeast is a naturally occurring fungus that can be found on your dog's skin and in his or her ears. When the proper yeast balance exists, your pet's skin and ears remain healthy. However, ear inflammation can cause yeast levels to rise and cause a brown, greasy discharge within the ear canal and around the inside flap of your dog's ear. This discharge can be itchy and smelly for your dog.
Our Orange Park vets see yeast infections in dogs' ears far more often in the summer months when it is hot and humid than at any other time of year. Hot humid weather provides the perfect environment for yeast to grow. When that moisture and warmth are combined with a lack of airflow caused by the shape of your dog's ears, yeast infections can often result.
Causes of Yeast Ear Infection in Dogs
There are numerous reasons why the delicate environment within your pet's ear can be thrown off and result in a yeast infection, some of the most common causes include:
- Trapped moisture - especially in dogs with long floppy ears
- Antibiotics
- Immunodeficiency
- Too much bathing
- Yeast allergy
- Frequent swimming
- Exercise in humid environments
- Feeding your dog sugary snacks
- Not cleaning your dog's ears often enough
Signs of a Yeast Infection in Your Dog's Eat
Yeast ear infections can lead your dog to experience the following symptoms:
- Red or brown waxy discharge in the ear
- Itching, scratching & pawing at the ear
- A cheesy or musty smell coming from the ear
- Red or irritated ear
How to a Cure Yeast Infection in Your Dog's Ears
Ear infections are uncomfortable and itchy for dogs, not only that, they can become painful if the infection is left untreated and becomes more severe.
If you suspect your dog has a yeast infection in one or both ears, take him to the vet right away. Your veterinarian can diagnose the underlying cause of your puppy's ear infection and recommend the best treatment. During your dog's appointment, your vet will most likely clean your dog's ears to get treatment started on the right foot.
The best treatment for your dog's yeast ear infection will depend upon the underlying cause and may include:
- Regularly cleaning your pet's ears at home with a medicated cleanser
- Topical medications
- Oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medications
Preventing Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs
The key to preventing yeast ear infections in dogs is keeping the ear canal healthy and dry.
Whenever your pooch has been in water bathing or swimming be sure to dry your dog's ears well.
Chronic or recurring infections in your dog can be caused by underlying conditions such as allergies or hypothyroidism. It is critical to treat the underlying cause of your puppy's ear infections.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.