Itchy Ears

Itchy ears are not always simply “dirty ears”. Bacteria or yeast may have multiplied within the canal, and other problems such as ear mites, foreign material, allergy or middle-ear disease may need to be considered.

The ear canal should be examined so the cause, severity and appropriate treatment can be determined. Repeated cycles of inflammation and infection can gradually thicken and scar the ear canal, causing it to narrow. This traps further moisture and debris, makes treatment more difficult and can perpetuate the problem.

Food and gut-health support may form a valuable part of the wider plan, but will not replace treatment for an active ear infection.

Once the ears have been assessed and any active infection appropriately treated, a suitable ear cleaner may help remove wax and debris and support ongoing ear health. Please follow your veterinarian’s advice.

Arrange veterinary assessment for ongoing scratching or head shaking, redness, pain, discharge, a strong odour or repeated waxy build-up. Sudden trouble in one ear, swelling of the ear flap, a head tilt, loss of balance or marked discomfort also needs prompt attention.

Recurring ear trouble may be part of a wider skin and allergy pattern. Addressing active disease while also supporting food, gut and skin health gives us the best opportunity to improve long-term comfort.

At Raw Essentials, we look beyond the sore or itchy area. We start with what is going into the bowl, how well the gut is functioning and what may be keeping the immune system on high alert.

We aim for root-cause resolution wherever possible. That means identifying and addressing the factors driving the problem.

Food and gut health may influence inflammation, the strength of the skin barrier and how well a pet copes with environmental allergens. In some pets, specific dietary proteins may also contribute.

Keep it simple. Start with the foundations.

A clean, species-appropriate diet provides a strong foundation for healthy skin. We recommend removing all grains, starches, additives and preservatives and reviewing everything they eat, including meals, treats, chews, supplements, flavoured medications and any food they may get from other people.

Sometimes progress begins with what we take out, rather than what we add.

Some pets may also benefit from a carefully planned novel-protein feeding plan.

The environment matters too. Grasses, pollen, dust mites, mould, tradescantia and other plants, damp conditions, new carpets, bedding, floor cleaners and fragranced household products may all play a part. Triggers may be seasonal or present throughout the year. We cannot always avoid them completely, but noticing patterns can provide valuable clues.