Yeast Ear infections in dogs can be a serious problem, particularly during the hot and humid summer months. Our San Gabriel veterinarians go over the basics of yeast ear infections in dogs, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment and prevention options.
Yeast Ear Infections
Yeast is a type of fungus that can be found on your dog's skin and ears. Your pet's skin and ears stay healthy when the right balance of yeast is present. Inflammation of the ear, on the other hand, can cause yeast levels to rise, resulting in a brown, greasy discharge in the ear canal and around the inside flap of your dog's ear. This discharge can be itchy and smelly for your dog.
During the summer months, when it is hot and humid, our San Gabriel veterinarians see yeast infections in dogs' ears far more frequently than at any other time of year. The perfect environment for yeast to grow is hot, humid weather. Yeast infections are common when moisture and warmth are combined with a lack of airflow caused by the shape of your dog's ears.
Causes of Yeast Ear Infection in Dogs
There are numerous reasons why the delicate environment within your pup's ear can be thrown off and lead to a yeast infection, some of the most common includes:
- Trapped moisture - particularly 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 That Your Dog May Have A Yeast Ear Infection
If your dog has a yeast ear infection you may notice one or more of 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 Cure a Yeast Infection in Dog's Ear
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.
It's time to take your dog to the vet if you suspect he or she has a yeast infection in one or both ears. Your veterinarian will be able to determine the cause of your puppy's ear infection and suggest the best treatment options. Your vet will most likely clean your dog's ears during your appointment 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 clean your pup's ears at home with a medicated cleanser
- Topical medications
- Oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medications
Preventing Ear Infections in Dogs
The trick to preventing yeast ear infections in dogs is keeping the ear canal healthy and dry.
If your pooch has been in water swimming - or after bathtime - 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. The underlying cause of your dog's ear infections must be addressed.
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.