Environmental Allergies Role In Ear Yeast Infections
Several underlying conditions can cause an imbalance in the skin microbiome and lead to yeast overgrowth. Allergies are one of them, and skin allergies are among the most common causes of ear yeast infection in dogs and cats. Your pets can be allergic to things in the environment, food or a combination of both. Exposure to an allergen causes redness, swelling and increased secretion of the skin glands.
Best Way To Treat An Ear Yeast Infection
To effectively treat your pets ear infection, find out what is disrupting the environment of the ear. Your veterinarian can perform tests using the discharge from the ears to confirm an infection. An ear swab cytology test can help determine if there are ear mites, yeast or a bacterial infection present. Based on those results, the appropriate treatment can be administered.
Ear Infection In Cats
Ear infections are uncommon in cats but when they do strike the underlying cause can be serious.
That’s why it is essential to seek treatment for your kitty’s ear infection as early as possible. An easy to treat outer ear infection can quickly spread to the middle ear and onto your cat’s inner ear. Left untreated ear infections in cats can result in hearing loss.
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Early Treatment Is Key
Like all infections in pets, yeast infections have the potential to take a dangerous turn if they are not treated soon enough. Yeast infections dont often occur alone, meaning a bacterial infection, injury or other side effect is usually developing alongside the fungal growth. Together, these things could do lasting damage to your pet.
For example, unchecked ear infections have the potential to cause permanent hearing loss. Untreated skin infections could destroy healthy tissue and cause the infection to spread, potentially internally. And, if the yeast infection does begin to infect the internal organs, more severe consequences might occur, such as damage to the bladder and urinary tract, coughing and breathing troubles.
The best way to ensure your kittys infection clears up quickly is to take them to the vet and have their infection examined. Theres no way to tell whether an infection is caused by bacteria, yeast or both, so you wont know the most appropriate treatment until a culture is taken. Thankfully, once the microorganism is identified, your cat should be able to heal up with ease!
How Ear Infections In Cats Are Diagnosed
Your veterinarian will begin by using an otoscope to look into your cats ear canal, then taking a sample of ear debris to examine under a microscope to determine whether bacteria, yeast, or ear mites are causing the problem with your kitty’s ear.
Bringing your feline friend in to see our vets at Lake Norman Animal Hospital for routine wellness exams provides your vet with an opportunity to monitor the overall health of your cat and your kitty’s ears.
Wellness exams mean that your vet may be able to detect early signs of an ear infection before it develops into a long-term problem. We also have an in-house laboratory that allows us to perform any tests required and receive results quickly so that your cat’s treatment can begin as soon as possible.
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Recovery Of Fungal Yeast Infection In Cats
Your cat’s recovery will depend on the severity of the yeast infection and treatment used. If there are any secondary problems associated with the primary infection, they will need to be addressed and treated. In most cases, medicated shampoos reduce the smell and scaly skin in 1 to 2 weeks after treatment begins. Your doctor will want to recheck your cat every few weeks or so until symptoms resolve. He may perform a skin cytology test at each of these visits, until yeast overgrowth is reduced to normal levels. Once infected with fungal yeast infections, your cat may suffer a flare-up of symptoms on occasion. While this is completely normal, it is necessary to communicate with your doctor before symptoms escalate. Prompt treatment is key to keeping fungal yeast infections in cats at bay.
Using A Natural Cure For Cats Ear Infection
Traditionally, a veterinarian will prescribe cat antibiotics, antifungal medicines, or another drug on the market. However, many cats undergo a disruption in the normal makeup of the inside ear when taking such remedies. Sometimes, the simplest of ear infections can become a long-term issue when an adverse reaction to antibiotics takes place. Over the years, pet owners have become more interested in the results associated with the use of natural pet cures. As you scan the many natural cures for cats ear infection, you will find remedies that come in liquid, as well as tablet form.
When a brownish-pink wax fills the ear canal of your cat, chances are they are suffering a yeast infection that requires a thorough cleaning. Diluted white vinegar helps revitalize the chemical balance in the ears by removing unwanted dirt and debris. It is suggested to pour a small amount into the ear canal, massaging the area before gently wiping the inside of the ear using a cotton ball. Using vinegar is a once-a-day treatment that continues until the ear becomes better.
An herb called pau d arco is an inner bark natural cure for cats ear infection that originates in South America. This organic antibiotic works fast to eliminate fungi and bacteria. At the first sign of cat ear infection, mix equal parts of pau d arco tincture with mineral oil and place several drops into the ears of your cat. For a couple of days, the treatment is given two to three times per day.
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Get Your Cat Used To The Idea Of Having Their Ears Treated
Cat ear infections can be quite painful, almost like living with a constant migraine, and even the sweetest and most gentle of cats can react by scratching, biting, or trying to run away.
You need to use positive reinforcement to get your cat used to having their ears cleaned and medicated. Punishments such as shouting, hitting, or rough handling will only exacerbate the problem and instill fear in your cat.
First, establish a comfortable and quiet area where you will treat your cat. Take them to this area routinely and give them a special treat. For more severe or painful conditions, you can get your cat accustomed to being held in your lap by wrapping them in a towel, blanket, or pillowcase.
Touch your cats face and ears gently as you give them their special treat. Continue this exercise multiple times and then place several drops of the medication into their ears. You will not be administering the treatment yet these drops are just to get them used to the idea before you start.
Once you have done this a few times, you can go to the next step of cleaning their ears.
What Is Fungal Yeast Infection
Fungal yeast infections are not common in domestic cats, but they do occur. These infections come from fungi, which are parasitic organisms that produce spores. Some fungi exploit a host that is sick or weak, but others can invade even the healthiest of cats. Most types of fungal yeast infections in cats affect the skin, but some can affect other parts of the body such as the respiratory tract.
While viruses and bacterial infections most likely come to mind when pet owners consider their cats becoming sick, there are types of fungi that can also cause many unpleasant symptoms in cats.
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How Can You Help Prevent Cat Ear Infections
As they say, prevention is some of the best medicine. Luckily, when it comes to cat ear infections, there are a few steps you can take to prevent them from plaguing your furry friend.
Adding these simple steps to your cats wellness routine can reduce their likelihood of contracting an ear infection and improve their day-to-day comfort.
When To See Your Veterinarian In Cupertino
If your pet has a yeast infection, you may notice a variety of changes in your pet’s behavior and body. Some of the most common signs of yeast infections include:
- Crusty skin around the pet’s ear.
- Waxy buildup inside the pet’s ear.
- Red, irritated skin inside the ear.
- Unpleasant odor around the ears.
- Lack of balance when standing or walking.
- Excessive ear scratching.
- Swelling around the ears.
- Rubbing of the head on the floor.
If your pet displays one or more of these symptoms, your pet very likely has a yeast infection in the ear.
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What Causes Ear Infections In Cats
Generally, unless your cat has picked up mites from another animal, ear infections are a secondary condition. That means they are actually the result of some other underlying medical problem.
Here are some of the contributing causes and perpetuating factors for external ear infections, called otitis externa, and middle ear infections, called otitis media:
- An overgrowth of yeast or bacteria, or often, both
- Wax buildup in the ear canal
- Thick hair in the ear canal
- Allergies such as food or pollen
- Autoimmune diseases
- Loss of balance or disorientation
Types Of Cats Ear Infections Caused By Yeast
Differenttypes of fungus are found in parts of the body, including the ears. Yeasts areable to multiply too rapidly and colonize the infection results. If a yeastinfection in a cats ears occurs for more than once, it can be a sign ofunderlying disease or compromised immune system.
Here arethe types of yeast infection in cats ears:
This is the most common body infection caused by yeast. You will find your cat shaking his head and scratching at the ear followed by unpleasant odor. This infection is also known as otitis, might also affect all parts of the ear, including the outer, middle and inner part of the ears.
If you bring your cat to the vet, your vet will take a sample of the ear to be able to determine the type of the yeast. Ear cleaning is one of the common treatments for some cats. However, if it is severe, your cat might need to be given anesthesia during the cleansing.
- Malassezia Dermatitis
This yeast lives on cats ears and skin. The excessive amount of this yeast can cause Malassezia dermatitis. The symptoms of this disease are hair loss, redness, skin irritation, scaling and even a foul odor.
This yeast can be triggered by other infections, allergies or even other diseases, including liver and pancreatitis in cats. Your vet will be likely to give antibiotics to treat this problem.
- Feline Candidiasis
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What Is An Ear Infection
An ear infection in cats typically involves inflammation of the external ear canal. This condition is also called otitis externa. While ear infections are a relatively common occurrence in dogs, they are less common in cats.
The feline ear has a number of components. Many of these components are protected by the ear drum, such as the middle ear and inner ear. Infections of the middle ear and inner ear are less common in cats.
Instead, cat ear infections typically affect the external ear canal or outer ear, outside of the eardrum. The inflammation associated with an ear infection also commonly affects the pinna .
Symptoms Of Fungal Yeast Infection In Cats
The primary symptoms associated with yeast infections in cats depend on the type of infection present. Here are some common symptoms associated with these types of fungal infections in cats:
- Smelly discharge from lesions on the skin
- Upper respiratory infections
Types
There are several types of fungi that can cause yeast infections in cats, although they are not common. Below are a few types of fungal yeast infections that are known to affect domestic cats:
Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a yeast infection that affects primarily the skin and mucous membranes of the skin. This condition is not often seen in cats, but can occur in cats that are immunodeficient. This means that cats with immune suppressing conditions are more likely to contract this fungal yeast infection.
Malassezia dermatitis
Malassezia dermatitis is caused by yeast that is often present in the skin and ears of domestic felines. However, an overgrowth of yeast can cause inflammation of the skin and a host of other problems. This fungal yeast infection can occur in any breed.
Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is caused by a soil-borne fungus. Although most common in dogs, cats can become infected upon inhaling fungal spores. While not all infected cats become sick, those that do can have a multitude of unpleasant symptoms such as skin lesions, fever and cough.
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Itchy Scratchy Ears: Ear And Skin Yeast Infections In Cats
A cat ear yeast infection is one of the most commonly diagnosed cat ear problems at veterinary clinics. But unlike their canine counterparts, cats, by nature, tend to be very stoic creatures. As a result, ear infections in cats may cause serious health issues and may reach an advanced state before symptoms become noticeable. If you suspect your cat may have an ear infection, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian immediately. Only your vet can help you determine the underlying cause of the infection yeast, ear mites, fungus, or something else entirely and recommend the best treatment or remedy.
Yeast Overgrowth Is The Enemy
Yeast naturally resides in the environment or microbiome of the ears and skin. Certain factors in your pets microbiome help regulate yeast growth to create a healthy balance in the ear. But that balance can be disrupted when underlying factors cause inflammation in the ear. Inflammation can then cause swelling and the glands to over-secrete. This process leads to a moist environment in the ear canal. And because yeast thrives in a dark, moist environment, yeast overgrowth ensues. Overgrowth leads to dark brown discharge, an unpleasant odor and scratching at the ears.
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Treatment For Ear Infections In Cats
The treatment for ear infections in cats will depend on the cause.
First, your veterinarian will take steps to manage the pain and inflammation with medication. Then, depending on the amount of discharge and buildup, your veterinarian may gently clean your cats ears to make sure the topical medication is effective.
Most of the available medications for ear infections in cats include a combination of antibiotics, antifungals, and steroids to eliminate the infection and reduce inflammation. These medications coat the top layer of the external ear canal with a thin film when properly applied.
In the case of long-term inflammation or middle or inner ear involvement, oral or injectable drugs may be necessary. Surgery may even be required for serious middle ear infections. Cats with parasites will receive a topical antiparasitic medication.
Tumors or structural abnormalities may require additional steps to treat. Surgical biopsies and potentially a CT scan may be needed to determine whether a tumor is malignant and confirm the appropriate next steps. Allergies may require special testing to uncover the underlying cause and reduce recurrence of ear infections.
How To Apply Ear Drops
If your cat is prescribed eardrops to clear up an infection, make sure your veterinarian shows you how to use them. You can also refer to these steps to help:
Once thats done, you can release the earflap. Dont worry if your cat immediately shakes their head or paws at the ears. These are normal reactions and typically wont affect the eardrops. However, if you have any concerns about your cats response to the drops or problems applying them, its always a good idea to reach out to your veterinarian.
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What Are Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are a type of fungal infection that usually appears in the ears of pets. Dogs and cats can both get yeast infections, but this problem is most common in dogs that have long, floppy ears. Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers and dog breeds with similarly long ears are all at high risk for yeast infections.
What Causes Cat Ear Infections Cat Skin Infections
Yeast is the most common cause of fungal ear infections in cats, but bacterial infections, both pathogenic and non-pathogenic are also quite common cat ear problems. Ear mites are another common cause of head shaking and scratching. A veterinarian can quickly determine if ear mites are the cause, and may prescribe a small dose of Ivermectin to eliminate the mites in short order.
Other contributing causes of ear infections in cats include:
- Wax build up or thick hair in the ear canal
- Tumors/polyps within the ear canal or a ruptured eardrum
- Foreign bodies such as foxtails or grass seeds
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Some Common Causes Of Ear Infection In Cats
Except in the case of ear mites, most ear infections in cats are usually a sign of an underlying health condition. If your cat has a weak immune system, diabetes or allergies they face an increased risk ear infections compared to cats without these health issues.
Cat ear infections can develop when the lining of the ear canal becomes irritated, leading to inflammation. Inflammation within the ear can lead to excess wax production which in turn creates an environment where the naturally occurring bacteria and yeast grow out of control.
From there further inflammation is likely to occur and itchiness begins, resulting in the most common symptoms of ear infections in cats: ear rubbing, scratching, clawing and repeated headshaking.
Common causes of outer ear and middle ear infections in cats include:
- Irritants in the environment
- Immune system diseases
- Foreign bodies in the ear canal
- Autoimmune diseases
- Excessive growth of bacteria, yeast or both
- Thick fur or hair in the ear canal
- Diabetes mellitus
- Polyps or tumors in the ear canal
- Incorrect ear cleaning
- Ruptured eardrum
Outer ear infections are much less common in cats than they are in dogs, but when they do occur these infections can quickly spread to your cat’s middle ear or inner ear. Ear mite infestation is the most common cause of outer ear infections in cats.