Ear Infection Treatment for Dogs and Cats in Monona and Madison
Head shaking, scratching, and a strong odor from the ears are all signs your pet may have an ear infection. Ear infections are painful and tend to come back if the underlying cause is not addressed. At Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic, we identify exactly what is causing the infection, treat it gently using Fear Free handling, and help you prevent future flare-ups.
What Causes Ear Infections in Pets?
A dog’s ear canal is long and L-shaped, which traps moisture and debris and creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast. Most ear infections are triggered by an underlying problem, including:
- Environmental or food allergies, the most common cause in dogs
- Moisture from swimming or bathing, common for dogs who enjoy Wisconsin’s lakes
- Ear mites, especially in kittens and outdoor cats
- Foreign material such as grass awns or plant seeds
- Excess hair or wax buildup in the ear canal
- Hormonal conditions or growths inside the ear
Dogs with floppy ears, such as retrievers, spaniels, and basset hounds, are especially prone to infections.
Signs of an Ear Infection
Watch for frequent head shaking or tilting, scratching at the ears, redness or swelling, brown or yellow discharge, a yeasty or foul odor, crusting, and pain when the ears are touched. Severe or untreated infections can spread to the middle or inner ear and cause loss of balance, walking in circles, or hearing loss. Sometimes vigorous head shaking also breaks a blood vessel in the ear flap, causing a swollen aural hematoma that may need surgery.
How We Diagnose Ear Infections
During a sick pet visit, your veterinarian examines the ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope. We then look at a sample of ear debris under the microscope through our laboratory testing to identify bacteria, yeast, or mites. For recurring or resistant infections, an ear culture can pinpoint the exact organism and the medication that will work best.
Treating Ear Infections
Treatment usually includes a thorough ear cleaning and prescription ear medication that targets the specific cause of infection. Some pets benefit from long-acting medication applied in the clinic, which means fewer doses at home for pets who dislike having their ears handled. Pain relief or oral medications may also be prescribed, all available through our pharmacy. We will schedule a recheck to make sure the infection has fully cleared, because stopping treatment too soon is a leading reason infections return. Laser therapy can help reduce inflammation in some chronic cases.
Preventing Recurring Ear Infections
Controlling allergies, drying your dog’s ears after swimming, and using a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner can significantly reduce flare-ups. Routine ear checks are part of every wellness exam, and monthly parasite prevention helps protect cats and dogs from ear mites. Shop recommended ear cleaners through our online store, and browse other common health problems on our conditions page.
Pet Ear Infection FAQs
How do I know if my dog has an ear infection?
Common signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, discharge, a bad odor, and pain when the ears are touched. A veterinary exam confirms the diagnosis.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear infections are most often caused by allergies. Moisture, ear shape, and incomplete treatment can also play a role, so treating the underlying cause is key.
Can I treat my pet’s ear infection at home?
We do not recommend home remedies. Different infections need different medications, and some products can harm a pet with a ruptured eardrum. An exam ensures the right treatment.
Are ear infections painful for pets?
Yes. Ear infections can be very uncomfortable, and pets may become sensitive, irritable, or reluctant to let anyone touch their head.
Do cats get ear infections?
Cats get ear infections less often than dogs, but ear mites are common, especially in kittens. Cats may also develop polyps or allergy-related ear problems.
How long does it take an ear infection to heal?
Most uncomplicated ear infections improve within one to two weeks of treatment. Chronic or deep infections can take longer and may require follow-up visits.
How can I prevent ear infections after swimming?
Gently dry your dog’s ears after swimming or bathing and use a veterinarian-recommended drying ear cleaner to help keep the ear canal healthy.
Get Relief for Your Pet’s Ears
Ear infections only get worse with time. Call Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic at (608) 819-6750 to schedule an ear exam for your dog or cat in Monona and Madison.