Perhaps your pet woke up from a sound sleep to start scratching. The ears are looking and smelling a bit strange. Your pet needs to go to the veterinarian’s office. At Animal Health Services in Columbus, Dr. Mullen looks at the most common causes of pet skin and ear infections.

Allergies

The most common sign of allergies in pets is itchy skin. If the itch gets on or in the ears, then your pet’s constant scratching may cause an ear infection. Many kinds of allergies can be treated by your vet. Other signs of allergies in pets include:

• Rashes
• Bald spots
• Open wounds or sores
• Swollen skin or hives
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Noisy breathing
• Runny nose or eyes
• Sneezing or coughing more than usual

Ringworm

Although this might sound like a worm infestation, this is actually a fungal infection. It causes bald spots that have a bright red or pink edge or ring. Ringworm is highly contagious to other pets and people. Fortunately, it can be successfully treated with medication, creams, and medicated shampoos from your vet. You also have to clean your home to kill off all of the fungal spores that cause ringworm.

Mange

There are two types of mange, demodectic and sarcoptic. Sarcoptic mange is contagious to other pets and people. Both types of mange are caused by tiny mites that tunnel into your pet’s skin. Mange needs treatment from your vet, usually in the form of medicated shampoos, dips, and oral medications, but injectable medication may be needed for severe cases. Pets often scratch their skin open, so your pet may need to go on antibiotics.

Fleas

Fleas are a common cause of itchy skin. If they bite the ears, they can cause your pet to scratch so badly that an infection sets in. Many pets are allergic to flea saliva, so they develop signs of allergies. Fleas, as well as ticks, can be prevented with medication from your vet. Fleas can be successfully treated with medication and by cleaning your home. Regular vacuuming has been a proven way to kill fleas, as well as laundry in hot water. Exterminators are usually only needed for very bad infestations.

Yeast Infections

If your pet smells like yeast, scratching, going bald, and has greasy skin or fur, chances are your pet is suffering from a yeast infection, also called yeast dermatitis. The good news about yeast infections is that they are often easily cleared up with oral medication and medicated shampoos from your vet.

Contact Our Veterinarian in Columbus, MS

If you have questions about pet skin and ear infections and live in the Columbus area, contact Animal Health Services to learn more or to book an appointment with Dr. Mullen. Call our team today at (662) 328-2821 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.