Itchy Ears, Head Shakes, and Hidden Infections

Is your pet pawing at their ears, shaking their head constantly, or whining when you touch the side of their face? You may be witnessing the early signs of a cat or dog ear infection. At Borgfeld Animal Hospital, we see ear problems in pets quite frequently. Left untreated, a simple case of itchy pet ears can progress into something more serious and harder to manage. 

Spotting the Signs Early

Healthy ears should be clean, pink, and odor-free. When a cat or dog ear infection sets in, you might notice:

• Frequent scratching or pawing at the ears
• A head-shaking dog or cat that can’t seem to stop
• Sensitivity when the ears are touched
• Foul-smelling or waxy buildup
• Changes in balance or hearing

Even if symptoms seem minor, ear problems can worsen quickly. If you notice these signs, schedule a visit with your San Antonio vet.

Why Pets Develop Ear Infections

A thorough exam is the safest way to identify the cause of your pet’s discomfort. Some of the most common culprits behind itchy pet ears include:

• Allergies: Food or environmental sensitivities often lead to chronic ear problems in pets.
• Moisture: After a swim, bath, or even humid weather, water trapped in the ear canal can create the perfect environment for bacteria or yeast.
• Parasites: Ear mites are tiny but mighty irritants, especially in cats.
• Underlying health issues: Hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, or structural changes in the ear canal can make infections more likely and harder to treat.

Acute vs. Chronic Ear Problems in Pets

Some pets only deal with an ear infection once or twice in their life. Others seem to face them over and over again. Chronic ear problems in pets often point to a bigger underlying issue—like allergies—that needs to be managed along with the infection itself. That’s where your San Antonio vet team comes in.

How We Can Help

When you bring your pet in for ear issues, we’ll start with a gentle, but thorough exam. Depending on what we find, treatment may include:

• Careful cleaning of the ear canal
• Microscopic testing of samples to pinpoint the cause
• Topical or oral medications to ease discomfort and fight infection
• Recommendations for long-term prevention of chronic ear problems in pets, such as allergy testing or diet changes

Keeping Those Ears Healthy

At home, you can help by keeping your pet’s ears clean and dry, watching for early warning signs, and scheduling regular checkups. If you notice itchy pet ears, a head-shaking dog or cat, or a foul odor, don’t wait—it’s much easier (and less painful for your pet) to treat problems early.

We love helping San Antonio pets live their happiest, healthiest lives. If you think your furry friend may have an ear infection, give us a call at (830) 313-5290. Together, we can stop those itchy pet ears and restore comfort to your cuddly companion.