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.

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.

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

The ear swells and becomes painful as they bite through the skin to get at the blood supply.

Left undetected or untreated you are probably looking at more problems, with opportunistic yeast infections, bacterial strains, sores and painful scabs to contend with.

In the worst case scenario, an untreated ear mite problem may result in loss of hearing.

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.

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.

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 is suitable for both dogs and cats and helps to control odor and keep ears dry and therefore more resistant to yeast 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.

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.

This is a good solution for mite problems as it contains an active but natural ingredient which kills mites. Because of its effective nature, breeders and show people swear by it.

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.

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

Don't leave ear mite and yeast problems to sort themselves out, inevitably they don't and that just isn't fair on your pet.