Preventing Yeast Infections in Dogs Ears

By Tess Thompson

Yeast infections in dogs ears can be detected by the presence of scales on the skin. These scales give off a fetid, greasy smell and can be extremely offensive.

The scientific name of the yeast that is usually present in dogs is Malassezia pachydermatis. It can appear in the ear, rectum, vagina or anal sacs. The infected skin is similar to the thick skin of a pachyderm. Therefore, the infected area of the skin resembles the tough hide of an elephant.

The mere presence of yeast usually does not cause any major problem for the dog. But in many cases, the yeast infection indicates the presence of another infection. These other infections and allergies can cause abnormal itching in a dog. This makes the dog’s skin more vulnerable to yeast attacks. To confirm the presence of a yeast infection in your dog, skin is scraped from the infected area and examined under a microscope.

To treat the yeast infections in dogs ears effectively, it is essential to target the fundamental infection that causes it. One such infection that can cause yeast infections to spread in dogs is the presence of ear mites.

Oral drugs and dermatological creams used to treat infections can be expensive. Home remedies for dog ear mites on the other hand are less expensive but equally effective in eradicating the real cause of the problem.

Since the ear infections can develop into complications like hematomas, it is prudent to prevent dog ear mites from occurring in the first place. A proper and complete hygiene routine that includes ear cleaning can help in avoiding this problem. The various factors that create a favorable environment for ear mites to exist and breed are the following:

- Excessive production of wax
- High levels of humidity in the atmosphere
- Floppy ears that increase the probability of warm humid environment in the external ear and prevent fresh air from entering

Yeast infections in dogs ears can also be prevented by ensuring that your dog has healthy skin. Use degreasing shampoos to remove excessive oil from overactive sebaceous glands. Yeast infected parts should be washed with acetic acid wipes. A home remedy for cleaning these areas is vinegar mixed with water.

Cat ear mites are less common than ear mites in dogs. The prevention and treatments methods used for dogs, with slight variations, are applicable to cats as well.

Get more info on Ear Dr. for dog and cat ear mites and ear infections.