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 what are the culprits to these unpleasant symptoms? The ear mite is a tiny parasite that lives 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.

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

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

One ear mite infection will lead to another if you have multiple pets, as they transfer from one host to another.

Ear mite infections are a particular problem in places where there are large numbers of animals, such as pounds, boarding kennels and breeders.

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 mites can be dispatched easily and quickly. The first issue to to keep the ears clean - this is where products such as PNP Healthy Ears Ear Cleanser for Dogs can help, as its gentle cleaning properties will remove debris, wax and dust from the animal's ears.

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

Another ear cleaner option is 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.