Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Ear infections (otitis) are one of the most common reasons for vet visits. Learn about the different types, why they recur, and how to keep your pet's ears healthy.
Ear infections (otitis externa) are one of the top reasons dogs and cats visit the veterinarian. The ear canal is warm, dark, and moist — an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Breeds with floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds), dogs with allergies, and pets that swim frequently are at highest risk. Chronic ear infections can cause permanent damage if not properly treated and the underlying cause addressed.
Key Points
- Ear infections affect dogs more than cats — floppy-eared and allergy-prone breeds are highest risk
- Symptoms: head shaking, ear scratching, red/swollen ears, odor, and dark discharge
- Most ear infections are caused by underlying allergies — treating the allergy prevents recurrence
- Never put anything in your pet's ear without vet guidance — some products damage the eardrum
- Ear infections that recur (3+ times per year) need investigation for underlying causes
- Regular ear cleaning with vet-approved solution helps prevent infections
Types of Ear Infections
Otitis externa (outer ear): most common — inflammation of the ear canal. Caused by bacteria, yeast, allergies, or foreign bodies. Otitis media (middle ear): often results from untreated outer ear infections spreading inward. More serious and harder to treat. Otitis interna (inner ear): affects balance and hearing — causes head tilt and loss of coordination. Requires aggressive treatment.
Common Causes
Allergies (environmental or food): the #1 underlying cause — allergic dogs get chronic ear infections. Bacterial infections: secondary to allergies or ear canal damage. Yeast (Malassezia): thrives in warm, moist environments. Ear mites: more common in cats, highly contagious. Foreign bodies: grass seeds stuck in the ear canal. Excessive moisture: from swimming or bathing. Ear canal anatomy: narrow or hairy canals trap moisture and debris.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your vet will examine the ear canal with an otoscope, take a swab for microscopic examination (cytology), and check for foreign bodies. Treatment typically includes: ear drops (antibiotic, antifungal, or combination), ear cleaning solution, and sometimes oral medications for severe infections. Treatment usually lasts 7-14 days. Always complete the full course even if symptoms improve.
Prevention
Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner (especially after swimming or bathing). Keep ears dry — use cotton balls in ears during baths. Address underlying allergies — allergy management prevents recurring ear infections. Regular vet checkups catch early infections. For floppy-eared breeds, regular ear cleaning is essential — the ear flap traps moisture and reduces air circulation.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Your pet is shaking their head or scratching their ears frequently
- Your pet's ears are red, swollen, or have a foul odor
- You see dark brown, yellow, or bloody discharge in your pet's ears
- Your pet tilts their head to one side consistently
- Your pet's ear infection has not improved after 3 days of treatment
- Your pet has recurring ear infections (3+ times per year)
How RVC Can Help
Royal Veterinary Center provides comprehensive ear care including otoscopic examination, ear cytology, ear cleaning, and treatment for all types of ear infections. For chronic ear issues, we investigate underlying causes (allergies, anatomical factors) and create long-term management plans. We stock medicated ear drops and cleaning solutions. Call +853 6677 6611.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.