Ear Infections in Pets—Are They All The Same?

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons for veterinary visits, with nearly 20% of dogs experiencing some form of ear disease in their lifetime. If your pet has ever scratched at their ears, shaken their head repeatedly, or shown signs of discomfort, you’re not alone—ear infections are a frequent concern for many pet parents.

However, it’s important to understand that not all ear infections are the same. The type of infection your pet might develop can depend on a variety of factors, including their breed, environment and overall health. Recognising these differences is crucial because it allows for more effective prevention and treatment, ensuring your best friend stays happy and healthy.

Types of Ear Infections in Pets

Ear infections in pets can manifest in different forms, each affecting a specific part of the ear and requiring different approaches to treatment.

Otitis Externa

The most common type of ear infection in pets is Otitis Externa, which involves the outer ear canal. This is often the easiest to spot, as it typically causes visible redness, swelling and discharge. Pets with Otitis Externa may shake their heads frequently or scratch at their ears, trying to alleviate the discomfort.

Otitis Media

Otitis Media is a more serious condition, affecting the middle ear. This type of infection may occur when an outer ear infection is left untreated, allowing the infection to spread deeper into the ear. Pets with Otitis Media may exhibit more severe symptoms such as head tilting, balance issues, or even a reluctance to open their mouths due to pain.

Otitis Interna

The most severe form, Otitis Interna, affects the inner ear and can have significant effects on your pet's balance and hearing. This type of infection can lead to symptoms such as a lack of coordination, walking in circles or even hearing loss. Otitis Interna is particularly concerning because it can potentially spread to the brain if not treated promptly.

Common Symptoms of Ear Infections

When your pet has an ear infection, they often exhibit a range of symptoms that can signal discomfort and pain. Some of the most common symptoms include:

frequent head shaking, as if your pet is trying to dislodge something from their ear.
They may also scratch at the affected ear or rub it against furniture or the floor in an attempt to find relief.
A foul odour is another telltale sign, often accompanied by redness and swelling of the ear canal.
Additionally, you might notice discharge ranging in colour from yellow to brown, sometimes with a waxy or pus-like consistency.

Causes of Ear Infections

Ear infections in pets can be caused by various factors:

Bacterial infections are common, often resulting from moisture trapped in the ear, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.
Fungal infections, such as those caused by yeast, can also occur, particularly in pets with floppy ears that retain moisture.
Parasitic infections, such as those caused by ear mites, are more common in cats but can also affect dogs. These tiny parasites can cause intense itching and irritation.
Finally, allergies—whether environmental, such as pollen, or food-related—can lead to chronic ear infections by causing inflammation and excess wax production.

Understanding the type and cause of your pet's ear infection is key to effective treatment and prevention, ensuring that your dog or cat stays comfortable and healthy.

When to See a Vet

Knowing when to take your pet to the vet for an ear infection is crucial to prevent complications and ensure their comfort. While some mild ear issues can be managed at home, there are clear warning signs that indicate it’s time to seek professional help.

If your pet’s symptoms, such as head shaking, scratching, foul odour, or discharge, persist or worsen despite your efforts at home, it’s essential to consult our veterinarians. These symptoms could suggest that the infection is not responding to treatments or that it has progressed to a more severe stage, such as Otitis Media or Otitis Interna, which require more intensive care.

Additionally, if your pet experiences frequent ear infections, this is a strong indication that there might be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. Recurrent infections could be a sign of chronic allergies, an immune system issue, or even structural problems in the ear that make your pet more susceptible to infections. In such cases, our vets can perform a thorough examination and run diagnostic tests to identify and treat the root cause, helping to prevent future infections and maintain your pet’s overall health. Regular veterinary care is key to managing ear health, especially if infections are a recurring problem.