Infections in dogs and cats
Bacterial and viral infections: ears, skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract. Symptoms, treatment and when to see the vet.
Bacterial and viral infections can strike anywhere: ears, skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract. Early recognition and treatment are important. When in doubt, always see your vet—they can identify the cause and prescribe the right treatment.
⚠️ General symptoms
Watch for these signs that may indicate an infection:
- • Fever, lethargy or not eating
- • Coughing, sneezing or nasal discharge
- • Scratching ears, shaking head
- • Frequent urination, pain when urinating or blood in urine
📍 Where can infections occur?
👂 Ears (ear infection)
Ear infections are common, especially in dogs with floppy ears. Symptoms: scratching, head shaking, smelly discharge, redness. Cause: bacteria, yeast or ear mites. Don't poke around yourself—let your vet examine the ear and prescribe the right ear cleaner or drops.
🩹 Skin
Skin infections can develop from wounds, parasites or underlying allergies. Symptoms: redness, pus, scabs, odour. Bacterial or fungal infections (ringworm) require treatment. For hotspots or moist areas: act quickly.
🫁 Respiratory tract
Respiratory infections: coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy. In dogs: kennel cough. In cats: cat flu. Viruses and bacteria can affect both. For persistent symptoms or fever: see your vet.
💧 Urinary tract
Urinary tract infections: frequent urination, pain when urinating, blood in urine, accidents in the house. More common in cats (especially male cats can get blockages). Early treatment prevents serious complications.
💊 Treatment and prevention
Treatment depends on the type of infection:
- • Antibiotics or antiviral medication as prescribed by your vet
- • Ear cleaner and ear drops for ear infections
- • Medicated shampoo or topical treatment for skin infections
Prevention
Vaccination, good hygiene, keeping ears dry after swimming, and flea/tick control reduce the risk. Watch for changes in behaviour or appetite—early treatment is best.
🩺 This information is general. Contact your veterinarian for a consultation and tailored advice.
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