Ear mite infections are a big problem for both cats and dogs. If you watch your cat or dog and notice some changes in behavior it could be that your pet has ear mite problems.

If your pet starts shaking his head violently or won't stop scratching at his ears, even to the point where he is crying out because it is painful, you are probably dealing with ear mites.

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.

If you still do nothing your pet could lose his hearing or require expensive surgery.

Bad news if you have more than one pet too as ear mites can be passed from one animal to another.

Remember this if your pet is in contact with others, for example at playtime, in a kennel or if there are multiple pets in your family.

So if you have more than one animal it is wise to treat them all as if they had an ear mite infection.

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.

Alternatively try Lambert Kay Ear Rite Insecticidal Ear Wash.

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

Designed for cats and dogs equally, the dry powder neutralises odor and maintains a non damp environment, thus avoiding years problems.

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

Made with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal ingredients, these wipes will stop any yeast or bacterial infection in its tracks. They are quick and simple to use, come in a tidy resealable container, so every time you get a perfect wipe.

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

Because it's made with tea tree oil and witch hazel, you can rest assured you are cleaning your pet's ear with a product that contains natural ingredients.

Gimborn R-7M Ear Mite Treatment for Pets is a good choice for severe problems.

With a natural substance that kills mites, it will speedily resolve your pet's mite problems. This product comes strongly recommended from breeder and people who show dogs.

Zymox OTIC Solution with and without Hydrocortisone is another strong solution to an ear mite infection. It is used in cases where the animal has severe inflammation of the external ear due to ear mite, yeast and bacterial infections.

Use once a day for seven days for acute symptoms and double the time for chronic infections.

As you see there are plenty of products available to keep your pet's ears clean and mite free.

So watch out for those warning signs and deal with ear mite and yeast problems fast.