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Does your four-legged friend have itchy, smelly, or inflamed ears? These could be signs of a yeast infection, a common condition in dogs. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about yeast infections in dogs’ ears – from causes and symptoms to diagnosis and treatment – so you can keep your pup happy and healthy.
Yeast infections in dogs’ ears are primarily caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia pachydermatis, a yeast species naturally found on the skin and in the ears. While it’s usually harmless, certain conditions can cause it to multiply rapidly, leading to infection.
Yeast infections can be extremely uncomfortable for dogs, often causing itching, irritation, and a strong odour. If left untreated, they can lead to chronic ear issues, including hearing loss. In some cases, recurring yeast infections may indicate an underlying health problem, such as allergies or hormonal imbalances.
A yeast infection in your dog’s ear can develop due to several factors, including:
Yeast infections can cause a range of symptoms, including:
Your vet will perform a few steps to confirm a yeast infection:
Treatment usually involves a combination of medical care and home remedies:
Prevention is key to keeping your pup’s ears healthy! Here are some tips:
If your dog shows signs of an ear infection – such as frequent scratching, redness, swelling, or unusual ear discharge – book a vet visit as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent complications and help your dog feel better quickly.
Yeast infections in dogs’ ears are common, but with proper care, they can be treated and prevented. Regular ear checks, good hygiene, and a proactive approach to your dog’s health will help keep their ears happy and itch-free.
A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your furry friend comfortable and healthy!
Common signs include: Excessive scratching of the ears, head shaking or tilting, redness and swelling inside the ear, discharge with a musty smell (brown, yellow, or black), irritability or discomfort, and even reduced appetite.
You can help prevent yeast infections by: Regularly checking and cleaning your dog’s ears with a vet-approved cleanser, drying their ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing, managing allergies and any underlying health conditions, and lastly, keeping up with parasite prevention.
Yeast infections can develop due to: Warm, humid environments that encourage yeast growth, a weakened immune system from illness or medication, anatomical factors – dogs with floppy ears have reduced airflow, making them more prone, allergies (food or environmental)
or excess moisture in the ears from swimming, bathing, or improper drying
Treatment typically includes: Antifungal medications (topical drops or oral tablets) to eliminate yeast, antibiotics if a secondary bacterial infection is present, anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and discomfort, and regular ear cleaning with a vet-recommended solution.
f your dog shows any of these signs, it’s best to visit the vet: Frequent scratching or rubbing of the ears, head shaking or sensitivity when touched, redness, swelling, or ear discharge with an unusual smell, changes in behaviour, such as irritability or reduced appetite.
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