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.

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.

Yeast and bacterial infections are in store for your pet if you don't take action against an ear mite problem.

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.

Treat all animals at the same time to ensure you don't get repeated re-infections.

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.

Luckily there are treatments to help get rid and prevent ear mite infections. PNP Healthy Ears Ear Cleanser for Dogs is made from a range of mild and gentle components that softly rid the ear of dirt and wax and other discharge from the ear.

Clean ears are less susceptible to infection and the specially designed applicator makes this product simple to apply. You can use it on an ongoing basis and it is especially recommended for after swims.

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.

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.

Dr Golds Extra Gentle Ear Therapy for dogs and cats is another option to clean your pet's ears quickly, cleanly and effectively.

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.

If you want to bring in something stronger, reach for Gimborn R-7M Ear Mite Treatment for Pets.

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.

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 dosage at once a day should resolve severe inflammation, and fourteen days for chronic conditions where the animal is persistently infected.

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

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