It’s important to cure yeast infections at the earliest as they can lead to dermatitis in dogs. Yeast infections in dogs are usually found in their ears, on their skin and in their digestive tracts.
Yeast Infections in Dogs
Yeast infections in dogs are caused by 2 types of yeast namely Candida albicans and Malassezia. These infections are controlled in healthy dogs by their immune systems and friendly bacteria. The primary function of Candida albicans is to recognize and destroy harmful bacteria. Candida albicans are generally found in the digestive tracts in dogs.
Yeast infections caused by Malassezia occur on the skin and the ears in dogs. Pets with compromised immune systems, also allow the yeast to proliferate. They then change from yeast form to fungal form resulting in the onset of a yeast infection. If left untreated, yeast infections can cause lesions and sores on the skin. The infections can also affect the nervous, endocrinal and immune systems of the pet.
Yeast Infections in the Ears and Skin of Dogs
Yeast infections in canine ears are very common as the ear canals of dogs are dark and warm and this provides the perfect environment for yeast proliferation. Yeast infections on your pet’s skin can cause red sores or lesions that are accompanied by hair loss and excessive itchiness. T
he patches are scaly and greasy and yellowish in color. Common sites for yeast infections on the skin include the belly, the underside of the neck and the feet. Affected dogs have a musty odor.
Monistat for Dogs
Monistat is sold under the brand name of miconazole and is anti-fungal in nature. This is a non-prescription medication that’s easily available from the local pet or medical store. It’s also available as a topical cream and a shampoo.
Monistat Directions for Use
If the yeast infection on your pet’s skin or ear is localized, you should apply the topical cream of miconazole on the affected area as prescribed by the vet. If the infection is spread over a wider area, it’s best to use miconazole shampoo to treat the infection. You should bathe your pet twice a week using miconazole shampoo.
For best results, the shampoo should be applied for at least 15 minutes before rinsing off the lather. It’s best to clip the fur and keep areas that are affected by the infection completely free from fur while using Monistat. This increases the effectiveness of the medication. You may need to use Monistat for at least 6 weeks to successfully rid your pet of the yeast infection. The topical cream should be applied at the same time to ensure maximum benefit.
Side Effects of Monistat
Monistat side effects in dogs include:
- Swelling of the pet’s face
- Rash at the site of application
- Hives
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Coma
- Shock
If you observe any of the above mentioned side effects on your pet, discontinue the use of Monistat at once and seek vet help. Although Monistat controls yeast infection by preventing yeast causing bacteria from reproducing, it doesn’t harm friendly bacteria. Hence, it’s used often to treat yeast infections that affect the skin and ears in dogs.