What is Itchy Ears?

Itchy ears are a very common condition that affects both cats and dogs. When your pet scratches and shakes his head uncontrollably, scratches his ears or rubs them against you, the couch or carpet, something may be causing them to itch.

What Causes Itchy Ears?

There are a number of reasons that can cause your pet to paw their ears and these include ear mites, allergies to food, airborne particles or toxins, dry skin (seborrhoea) or even foreign objects that may be lodged in them. Some underlying diseases such as polyps or a thyroid condition can also cause itchy ears. This condition tends to more prevalent in hairy-eared dogs such as terriers and poodles.

Diagnosing Itchy Ears

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If you notice that your pet scratches his ears frequently, has dark debris in their ears, dry skin or scabs around the ears, there is foul smell emanating from them or they are swollen, then you should see your vet. Other common symptoms and signs of itchy ears include if your pet is tilting his head to one side, has trouble with balance or scratches persistently during the warmer months.

Your vet will perform an otoscopic examination or take an ear swab to check for an infection or ear mites. Medications such as antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection or cortisone may be given in drop, injection or drop form to alleviate the itching. Itchy ears are extremely uncomfortable for your pet and if left untreated, can lead to bacterial infection and inflammation.

Help for Itchy Ears

Natural remedies

Herbal and homeopathic remedies have also proven to be extremely beneficial in providing symptomatic relief for ear problems that often affect pets. These natural remedies are gentle enough to use for your pet without the harsh side effects of conventional medications. Carefully selected herbs such as Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree Oil), Rosmarinus officinale (Rosemary), Calendula officinalis (Marigold) and Verbascum thapsus helps to maintain overall ear health, soothes itchy, scratchy ears and keeps ear canals free of blockages.

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