Urgent Pet Care for Cat & Dog Ear Infections in Sunrise, FL

One minute your pet seems comfortable, and the next they are shaking their head, scratching at an ear, or pulling away when you try to take a closer look. Ear infections can become painful quickly, and waiting too long for treatment can allow irritation and inflammation to worsen.

Welleby Veterinary Hospital provides urgent pet care for cat and dog ear infections in Sunrise, FL, including same-day care during regular hospital hours when availability allows. Our veterinarians can examine your pet’s ears, identify what may be causing the problem, and recommend treatment based on what we find.

If your dog or cat is showing signs of an ear infection, contact us at (954) 748-2002 so we can help them feel comfortable again.

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What Causes Ear Infections?

Ear infections develop when inflammation, moisture, microorganisms, or another underlying problem disrupts the normal environment inside the ear.

Common causes and contributing factors include:

  • Yeast or bacterial overgrowth

  • Environmental or food allergies

  • Ear mites and other parasites

  • Moisture trapped after swimming or bathing

  • Excessive wax or debris

  • Foreign material inside the ear canal

  • Growths, polyps, or changes within the ear

  • Underlying skin or hormonal conditions

Some dogs are also more prone to recurring ear problems because of their ear anatomy, coat type, allergies, or lifestyle.

What Are Cat & Dog Ear Infection Symptoms?

Ear infection symptoms can range from mild irritation to significant pain. You may notice your pet suddenly paying more attention to one or both ears.

Signs can include:

  • Frequent head shaking

  • Scratching or rubbing the ears

  • Redness or swelling

  • A strong or unusual odor

  • Brown, yellow, black, or bloody discharge

  • Excessive ear wax

  • Sensitivity when the ear is touched

  • Holding one ear differently

  • Hair loss or irritated skin around the ear

  • Whining, restlessness, or other signs of discomfort

More severe ear disease can sometimes affect structures deeper within the ear. Contact a veterinarian promptly if your pet develops a head tilt, balance problems, unusual eye movements, difficulty walking, marked swelling, or significant pain.

How Does Welleby Veterinary Hospital Treat Cat & Dog Ear Infections?

Treatment starts by determining what is happening inside your pet’s ear rather than choosing medication based on symptoms alone.

Your veterinarian may examine the ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope and collect a sample of ear debris for microscopic evaluation. This can help identify yeast, bacteria, inflammatory cells, mites, or other changes that may be contributing to the infection.

Depending on the findings, treatment may include:

  • Professional ear cleaning

  • Prescription ear medication

  • Treatment for yeast or bacterial infections

  • Parasite treatment when ear mites are present

  • Medication to reduce pain or inflammation when appropriate

  • Treatment or management of underlying allergies or skin disease

Recurring infections may require additional investigation to determine why they continue returning.

If your pet is scratching or shaking their head, an exam can provide answers. Give us a call at (954) 748-2002 or book an appointment online.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cat & Dog Ear Infections

Can You Treat a Cat or Dog Ear Infection at Home?
What Should I Do If My Dog Has an Ear Infection but I Can't Afford the Vet?
Will a Dog Ear Infection Resolve on Its Own?
What Is the Difference Between a Yeast and Bacterial Ear Infection for Dogs and Cats?