No pet owners like to see their pets uncomfortable, but with so much going on in our lives, it can be easy to overlook a little bit of scratching. It can seem like excessive scratching is just one of the things that dogs and cats do, but if your pet is boxing at his ears, tilting his head, and spending time scratching for more than a few seconds, it may be time to look a little deeper as to why. Itchy skin can be a sign of many possible problems, and ear infections can lead to hearing loss. That is why both pet skin and ear infections need to be taken seriously.
Why Your Pet’s Skin Itches
Sometimes, your pet might feel a bit itchy for reasons similar to why you might randomly get an itch on your arm. Perhaps a breeze hit him in an odd way, or there’s a bit of extra dust or debris in the air. Other times, there may be fleas or other parasites. Our Sault Ste Marie veterinarian can confirm any of these possibilities and help you make a game plan to help your pet.
When a pet itches excessively, it can leave open sores or hot spots that are painful as well as itchy. These spots can lead to skin infections that will need special medication in order to heal. At Sault Animal Hospital, our vet will help you decide if there are modifications you can make to your home’s humidity levels, or to your pet’s diet and overall routine that will make itching and related infections less frequent.
Tending to Ear Infections
Ear Infections are a common issue for both cats and dogs. It is important for pet owners to pay attention and be on the lookout for any odd behavior that may indicate a pet is uncomfortable or in pain. Dogs with floppy ears, such as Basset Hounds and Spaniels, are most susceptible to ear infections, but ear infections can happen to any animal. Most infections affect the cells in the outer ear, but some infections reach the middle and inner portions of the ear canal as well. Without proper treatment, your pet may experience hearing loss or even facial paralysis, or balance issues.
Having healthy skin and ears is important for your pet. If you suspect anything is off with your pet, we are here to help. Contact Sault Animal Hospital in Sault Ste Marie, MI, at 906-635-5910 to schedule an appointment.
