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Dogs Frequently Scratch Ears: Possible Illness Alert!

19. December 2024
Ever notice your furry friend frequently scratching at their ears? Many pet parents might jump to th

Ever notice your furry friend frequently scratching at their ears? Many pet parents might jump to the conclusion that it's ear mites, but the truth is, dogs are actually less prone to ear mites compared to cats, especially if they're wellmaintained and regularly dewormed. So, assuming every earrelated issue is due to ear mites and treating it as such is often a misstep that might not resolve the problem.

But what's really going on when your dog keeps scratching their ears? Don't worry, we're here to shed some light on the common causes and provide quick solutions!

What Are the Common Reasons for a Dog to Scratch Their Ears?

1. Ear Infection

This is the most common reason dogs scratch their ears. It's usually caused by a bacterial or Malassezia infection leading to an outer ear infection, which can sometimes progress to middle or inner ear infections. Ear infections typically result in redness, pain, or itching, prompting dogs to shake their heads or scratch at their ears in an attempt to relieve discomfort.

Ear Infection Symptoms:

Constant head shaking or ear flicking;

Red, swollen ears with excessive discharge;

Unpleasant odor from the ears;

In severe cases, the dog may cry out in pain, experience hearing loss, or have a decreased appetite.

2. Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in a dog's ear canal, feeding on oils, dander, and blood, causing intense itching.

Ear Mite Symptoms:

Constant head shaking or ear scratching;

Black or brown waxy discharge in the ears;

Red, swollen ears with a possible foul smell.

3. Foreign Objects

While playing outside, dogs might get grass seeds, wood splinters, insects, or other small objects stuck in their ears, causing irritation or itching. This leads to frequent head shaking as they try to dislodge the foreign object from their ear canal.

4. Other Diseases

Some less common diseases can also cause dogs to shake their heads frequently. These include:

Epilepsy

Idiopathic head tremors

Autoimmune diseases

Thyroid dysfunction

How to Diagnose the Issue

Look for other symptoms in your dog. If you notice redness, abnormal discharge, an odor, ataxia, instability, loss of appetite, or a fever, it's time to visit the vet for a checkup.

What to Do When Your Dog Keeps Shaking Their Head?

Based on the cause and symptoms, different treatment approaches are necessary.

Ear Infection: For bacterial infections, use Erdocin (FluoroquinoloneMetronidazole Ear Drops) plus oral Cefadroxil Tablets; for fungal infections, use antifungal medications like CombiKetoconazole Ointment applied topically and oral Itraconazole. Always start by cleaning the ear canal with Erdacare (Pet Ear Cleaning Solution) before applying medication.

Ear Mites: Clean the ear canal with a gentle pet ear wash, then apply Xinring (Miconazole Nitrate Ointment), and regularly use Dipai (PyriproxyfenMoxidectin Drops) for deworming. Keep the environment clean to prevent recurrence.

Foreign Objects: A vet will use appropriate tools to remove the object based on its location and size. Never attempt to remove it yourself to avoid damaging the eardrum.

Other Issues: Follow the vet's diagnosis and guidance for treatment.

Lastly, your dog's ear shaking could be due to food or environmental allergies. If the symptoms are mild, start by identifying the allergen to prevent your dog from coming into contact with it again. For severe cases, consult your vet for the use of corticosteroids or antihistamines.

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