Ear Mites affect both dogs and cats. You will probably know if your pet has ear mite problems by the behavior he or she displays.

The following are sure signs that your pet is suffering from an ear mite infection; continual scratching around the ears, head shaking, restless behavior, some brown material present in the ears, a bad smell and your pet yelping if you touch the ears.

So who are these tiny pests, the ear mites? They are minute parasites that live in the lining of the ear canal.

Feeding on blood, they bite through the lining of the ear, which creates swelling and discomfort for your animal.

If you don't treat an ear mite infection, secondary problems may set in, including yeast or bacterial infections, sores, blood clots, and surgery.

And if that doesn't scare you, maybe the fact your pet will lose his hearing and will need a costly operation will.

Ear mites are like fleas - they will easily find another host if one is available.

This is especially bad news as an ear mite infection in one animal in a kennel or cattery can spread like wildfire throughout the whole community.

The best advice is to treat the whole group for ear mites simultaneously.

Although both dogs and cats may contract ear mites, you should take special car if you are the proud owner of a spaniel as their glorious long haired long ears are especially attractive to ear mites.

Ear mite treatments are available over the counter. Clean ears are a must so try PNP Healthy Ears Ear Cleanser for Dogs to get rid of any discharge or dirt in the ear.

It can help prevent ear infections, and is easy to apply with a specially designed nozzle. Use regularly and apply after swimming.

Lambert Kay Ear Rite Insecticidal Ear Wash is another great ear cleaner product in the battle against ear mite infections.

It helps clean the external ear surfaces, preventing infection. If you want to keep your pet's ears dry, try ClearQuest Ear Powder.

It will get rid of any odor problems and will keep ears dry, leading to fewer yeast-type infections.

ClearQuest also make Ear Wipes - a quick and convenient way to keep your cat or dog's ears clean and healthy.

Formulated with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal components, infections are kept at bay. They come in a convenient container which means clean and easy storage and no waste.

Nature lovers might like Dr Golds Extra Gentle Ear Therapy for dogs and cats to cleanse their pet's ears.

Be amazed how quickly this product will neutralize the odor from yeast and mite infections, and feel reassured that the product also disinfects with added natural ingredients such as Witch hazel and Tea Tree Oil.

A stronger alternative is Gimborn R-7M Ear Mite Treatment for Pets.

It contains a natural miticide that will dispatch ear mites and ticks promptly leaving your pet pain and infection free. Popular among breeders and showers.

If the situation has gotten really bad and your are struggling to cope with repeated or severe infections you need something with some punch, such as Zymox OTIC Solution with and without Hydrocortisone.

Seven days of treatment should resolve a nasty case of ear mites, but double it for repeated ear mite issues.

Your pet's ears don't have to be a problems with so many high grade products on the market.

Keep your eyes open for the first signs of ear mites and deal with the infection before it becomes a problem.