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.

Symptoms of an ear mite infestation include shaking of the head vigorously, repeated scratching of the ears, some brown colored discharge, possibly some malodor and apparent pain when the ears are touched.

You are probably asking what an ear mite is. Deep in the ear canal is the home of small parasites known as ear mites.

They penetrate the skin to feed on the blood supply, resulting in swelling and pain for your pet.

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.

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.

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

All cats and dogs can get an ear mite infection, but dogs with long floppy ears such as spaniels as more prone as they offer a greater number of hiding places for the 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.

Ideal for post-swimming, and mild enough for regular use, this Cleanser comes with a special nozzle, making it clean and easy to use.

Another ear cleaner option is Lambert Kay Ear Rite Insecticidal Ear Wash.

Ideal for cleaning the outer surfaces of the ear, it makes your dog's ears less hospitable for opportunistic infections. For dry ears, ClearQuest Ear Powder comes strongly recommended.

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

If you are looking for a clean and easy way to do the job of keeping your pet's ears clean, consider ClearQuest Ear Wipes.

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.

Cleaning your pet's ears with Dr Golds Extra Gentle Ear Therapy might be good for your conscience too.

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.

If you want to bring in something stronger, reach for 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.

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.

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

A mite free pet is a happier pet, thanks to all these sterling products.

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