Ear, Skin & Urinary Infections Treated in Traverse City, MI
Head shaking, constant scratching, and frequent accidents are more than annoying habits. They are often signs of an infection that is making your pet uncomfortable. At Omnivet in Traverse City, MI, we diagnose the type of infection quickly and provide targeted treatment so your pet feels better fast.
Ear Infections
Ear infections (otitis) are among the most common reasons dogs visit the veterinarian, and cats get them too. They are usually caused by bacteria or yeast, often triggered by allergies, moisture from swimming, ear mites, or foreign material like grass awns. Signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, odor, dark or yellow discharge, and a head tilt. We examine the ear canal with an otoscope, check that the eardrum is intact, and test a sample of the discharge under the microscope to choose the right medication.
Skin Infections
Bacterial and yeast skin infections (pyoderma and yeast dermatitis) often develop secondary to allergies, parasites, or skin injuries. You may notice itching, redness, pimples or pustules, crusts, hair loss, greasy skin, odor, or moist, painful hot spots. We use skin cytology and, when needed, culture to identify the organism. Treatment may include medicated shampoos, topical therapy, oral antibiotics or antifungals, and anti-itch medication, along with a plan to address the underlying trigger.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections cause frequent urination, accidents, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and licking of the genital area. Some pets also show increased thirst. We diagnose UTIs with urinalysis and urine culture, and may recommend X-rays to check for bladder stones. Important: a cat, especially a male, that strains without producing urine may have a urinary obstruction and needs emergency care.
Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Treating an infection with the wrong medication can allow it to linger, recur, or become resistant. Our in-house laboratory lets us identify bacteria and yeast quickly so treatment is targeted from the start. For pets with recurring infections, we look for the underlying cause, such as allergies or hormone disorders, and may recommend a medical workup with bloodwork.
Get Your Pet Comfortable Today
Infections are a great fit for our urgent care, same-day, and walk-in appointments. Call Omnivet at (231) 244-4860. We are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 7pm and Saturday from 10am to 6pm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear, Skin, and Urinary Infections
What are the signs of an ear infection in pets?
Head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, odor, discharge, and a head tilt are common signs of an ear infection.
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear infections are often linked to allergies, ear shape, moisture from swimming, or hormone disorders. Identifying the trigger helps prevent future infections.
Can I clean my pet’s infected ears at home?
Wait until your pet has been examined. If the eardrum is damaged, some cleaners and medications can cause harm.
What does a skin infection look like?
Look for redness, pimples, crusts, hair loss, odor, greasy skin, or moist, painful hot spots, often with intense itching.
How do you diagnose a urinary tract infection?
We use urinalysis and urine culture to confirm a UTI and identify the right antibiotic. X-rays may be recommended to check for stones.
Are urinary infections an emergency?
Most are not, but a pet that strains without producing urine may be blocked. Call (231) 244-4860 immediately if you see this.
How long does treatment take?
Many infections improve within a few days, but completing the full course of medication is important to prevent recurrence. We will schedule a recheck when needed.