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77 results for “Hearing loss”
Ear Mites in Dogs: Why the Smell Means Trouble
Ear mites (Otodectes) are ear-canal parasites that feed on lymph and fluid; females are 0.35–0.45 mm, males 0.275–0.36 mm—barely visible white dots. Left untreated they cause inflammation and crusting within about two weeks and can progress to middle or inner ear infection, even hearing loss and loss of balance. Signs: foul-smelling dark ear discharge, head-shaking and scratching, and sometimes worsened tear stains (the ear and facial nerves connect). Treat by isolating the dog and disinfecting its space, cleaning the canal, and applying a miticide as directed until gone; prevent with routine ear care. If it won't clear, see a vet. (Mites rarely infect people.)
Which Dogs Are Most Prone to Ear Infections?
A dog's L-shaped, narrow ear canal traps debris and invites infection. Small long-haired breeds, large floppy-eared dogs like Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Dachshunds, and some prick-eared breeds with tight canals such as Bulldogs are most at risk. Causes span primary (mites, allergies, tumors), predisposition (canal shape, systemic disease), and perpetuating (bacteria, fungi). Watch for head-shaking, foul discharge, and hearing loss, and keep the outer ear clean to protect the inner ear and nervous system.
Dog Ear Odor: Could It Be Ear Inflammation?
A dog's L-shaped ear canal makes infection easy, and odor often signals otitis. Inflammation ranges from outer (otitis externa) to middle and inner ear; left untreated, outer infection can progress to the middle ear and even cause hearing loss, loss of balance, or meningitis. Prevention is straightforward: keep ears dry after baths, pluck ear hair in floppy long-haired breeds, and clean weekly with a pet ear solution, never alcohol or peroxide. Regular parasite control also helps, since mites trigger ear infections.
Why Your Dog Keeps Scratching Its Ears
Frequent ear scratching usually points to an ear problem—most often ear mites, a fungal infection, or a foreign object lodged in the canal. Spotting the signs early prevents a minor itch from becoming a painful infection or even hearing loss.
Should You Do Ear Care After Bathing a Cat?
Pet ear disease is rising; a cat with ear trouble shakes its head, scratches with hind legs, and smells bad. Untreated, it scratches endlessly and hurts itself.
Common Cat Skin Problems Besides Ringworm
The biggest difference between cats and other animals is that cats are masters at hiding pain—yet there is one condition they cannot conceal: skin problems!
How to Control Ear Mites in Cats During Winter
Cat and dog ear canals are closed L shapes; in winter they are warm and damp - a breeding ground for mites. Many owners skip winter ear care. How to confirm and gently remove ear mites without hurting the fragile canal - read on.
Signs a Hamster Is Entering Old Age
Hamsters live only two to three years and start aging around a year and a half. This guide lists the signs — less wheel use, less food, more sleep, faded coat, weight shift, and failing senses.
At What Age Is a Dog Considered Old?
A dog's life is only about a dozen years; by ten it's often senior, with many changes. Here is when a dog is old.
Common Ear Diseases in Dogs and Cats: Mites, Otitis and Hematoma
The ears are easily overlooked, so wax and debris build up and invite bacterial infection and ear mites. The main ear diseases — ear mites, otitis and ear hematoma — can damage hearing or lead to secondary infection. Routine cleaning, keeping ears dry, and prompt mite treatment prevent most problems.