With their adorable floppy ears, Cavapoos are unfortunately prone to developing painful ear infections. As a Cavapoo owner, it’s important to understand the causes of these infections and how to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This guide covers the key information you need to keep your pup’s ears clean, dry, and healthy.
What Leads to Ear Infections in Cavapoos?
Cavapoos are predisposed to ear infections due to their droopy ears, which trap moisture and debris inside the ear canal. This damp, warm environment allows yeast and bacteria to easily flourish. Excessive hair growth inside the ears can also catch dirt and water.
Allergies, hormone imbalances, foreign objects lodged in the ear canal, and autoimmune diseases like hypothyroidism can also trigger infections. Left untreated, these infections can become incredibly uncomfortable for your dog and even lead to hearing loss.
Recognizing the Signs of an Ear Infection
Signs your Cavapoo may have a brewing ear infection include:
- Frequent head shaking and scratching at their ears
- Redness and inflammation in or around the ears
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge in the ears
- Unpleasant odor coming from the ears
- Loss of balance, walking in circles, or head tilt
- Unusual back-and-forth eye movements
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
If you observe any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary appointment immediately to properly diagnose and treat the infection before it worsens.
How to Prevent Ear Infections in Cavapoos
While ear infections can sometimes be inevitable, there are steps you can take to minimize risks:
- Gently clean inside your dog’s ears weekly using a vet-recommended solution to prevent buildup.
- Thoroughly dry your Cavapoo’s ears after baths, swimming, or going out in the rain.
- Regularly trim excess hair around and inside the ears to improve airflow.
- Monitor their ears carefully and address any signs of redness or irritation early on.
- Avoid inserting foreign objects like cotton swabs into your dog’s ears.
- Keep your Cavapoo’s allergies under control through medication or changes to their environment.
With diligent at-home care, you can significantly reduce the chances of an ear infection developing.
Treating Ear Infections Under Veterinary Guidance
If an ear infection does occur, your veterinarian will likely prescribe an antifungal or antibiotic medication specifically suited for your Cavapoo’s needs. Follow all label instructions carefully and finish the full course as directed, even if symptoms seem to resolve.
Depending on the severity, your vet may also recommend:
- An anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Flushing the ears to dislodge debris
- Medicated ear drops or ointments
- Oral medication or allergy shots for underlying issues
With proper treatment guided by your vet, your Cavapoo’s infection should clear up within 7-10 days. Schedule a follow-up exam to ensure the infection has fully resolved.
By staying vigilant and addressing ear infections promptly, you can keep your Cavapoo comfortable and avoid long-term complications. With some preventative care, you can reduce the likelihood of painful ear infections occurring in the first place.
