Experts weigh in on ear examsMay 7, 2019Ears. They're the bane of veterinarians and clients alike, not to mention the dogs and cats who must contend with itchy or painful ear conditions caused by environmental and food allergies, bacteria and yeast overgrowth, mites, foreign bodies, trauma, tumors, or polyps. Ear problems can spring from many different sources. That makes it essential to conduct a thorough exam, be familiar with some of the other disorders that can lead to ear problems, and know what to ask owners to bring out clues to the cause. Itch triggers Allergies are probably the number one cause of ear inflammation. Once ears become inflamed, secondary infections caused by overgrowth of normal populations of bacteria or yeast in the ear typically follow. The result is exudate, pain, and worsening inflammation. Young animals in multipet households or hoarding situations may pass ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) back and forth, especially if they aren't on a monthly preventive, are fed a poor diet, or are sick. Demodex canis is another mite that can affect young or old animals who are immune-suppressed. Less commonly, endocrine diseases (e.g. Cushing's or hypothyroidism), as well as certain autoimmune disorders, can cause ear problems. Take hypothyroidism. "Those dogs commonly will have …
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How to take care of itchy petsMay 18, 2017he evolution of flea and tick control has been impressive, while therapeutic options for allergic dermatitis—atopic dermatitis in particular—have made significant strides.
The latest advancements in atopic dermatitis treatments in dogs and catsMay 10, 2016It’s no secret that one of the top conditions that compels people to take their pets to the veterinarian is itchy skin and the allergies that can cause it. Thankfully, treatment options for atopic dermatitis (AD) have improved greatly in recent years, and other solutions appear to be on the way.
