Dog and Cat Ear Infection Treatment in Tulsa, OK
Dog and Cat Ear Infection Treatment in Tulsa, OKIf your pet is shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or you’ve noticed a bad smell coming from the ear canal, an ear infection may be to blame. Ear infections are painful and, if left untreated, can lead to chronic inflammation, ruptured eardrums, and even hearing loss. At Woodland West Animal Hospital, our veterinarians diagnose the cause of your pet’s ear infection and provide fast, effective relief — 7 days a week.
What Causes Ear Infections in Pets?
The L-shaped ear canal of dogs and cats traps moisture and debris, creating a warm environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive. Ear infections (otitis externa) are rarely the root problem; they usually develop because of an underlying issue such as:
- Environmental or food allergies — the most common cause of recurring ear infections
- Ear mites, especially in kittens and puppies
- Moisture from swimming or bathing
- Excess hair or wax in the ear canal
- Foreign objects such as grass awns or foxtails
- Hormonal disorders or growths in the ear canal
Dogs with floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Labradors, are especially prone to ear problems.
Signs of an Ear Infection
Watch for these common symptoms:
- Head shaking or tilting
- Scratching or pawing at the ears
- Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- A yeasty or foul odor
- Pain when the ears are touched
- Loss of balance, circling, or unusual eye movements (signs the infection may involve the middle or inner ear)
Diagnosing Ear Infections
Your veterinarian will examine the ear canal with an otoscope to check for inflammation, debris, foreign objects, and the health of the eardrum. We then perform ear cytology — examining a sample of the discharge under the microscope — to identify whether bacteria, yeast, or mites are present. This allows us to choose the right medication rather than guessing. For severe or chronic cases, a culture or CT imaging may be recommended to evaluate the middle ear.
Ear Infection Treatment
Treatment typically includes a thorough ear cleaning followed by prescription ear medication targeted to the type of infection. Painful or severe cases may also need oral medications and anti-inflammatories. Our team will show you how to clean and medicate your pet’s ears at home, and our ear medication video walks you through the process step by step.
To keep infections from coming back, we’ll also address the root cause — whether that’s managing allergies, starting a food trial with help from our nutritional counseling team, or treating ear mites with parasite prevention. Medications and cleaners are available from our on-site pharmacy and drive-thru.
Don’t Wait on Ear Pain
Ear infections are uncomfortable and tend to get worse with time. If your pet has sudden head tilting, loss of balance, or severe pain, contact our urgent care team or stop by as a walk-in. Routine ear checks are also part of every wellness exam.
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Ear Infection FAQs
Can a dog ear infection go away on its own?
Rarely. Most ear infections need prescription treatment, and delaying care allows the infection to spread deeper and become more painful and harder to treat.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear infections are usually caused by an underlying problem such as allergies, ear anatomy, or excess moisture. Identifying and managing that cause is key to prevention.
Are ear infections contagious between pets?
Bacterial and yeast ear infections are not contagious, but ear mites are highly contagious and can spread between dogs and cats in the same household.
How long does it take an ear infection to heal?
Most uncomplicated ear infections improve within one to two weeks of treatment. Chronic or middle ear infections can take longer and require follow-up visits.
Should I clean my pet’s ears at home?
Routine cleaning with a veterinary ear cleaner can help pets prone to infections, but avoid cotton swabs deep in the canal. Ask our team how often your pet’s ears should be cleaned.
Can I use home remedies for my pet’s ear infection?
We don’t recommend it. Some home remedies irritate the ear or are unsafe if the eardrum is damaged. An exam ensures your pet gets the right medication.
When is an ear infection an emergency?
Loss of balance, head tilting, circling, rapid eye movements, or severe swelling and pain need prompt attention. Call (918) 299-1208 right away.
Relief for Your Pet’s Ears in Tulsa
Get your pet back to comfort. Call Woodland West Animal Hospital at (918) 299-1208 or request an appointment online — we’re open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day.