What Causes Ear Infections in Pets?

Ear infections, known as otitis, are one of the most frequent reasons dogs see the veterinarian, and they affect cats as well. A dog’s L-shaped ear canal traps moisture and debris, creating a warm environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Most ear infections have an underlying trigger, and identifying it is the key to preventing repeat infections.

• Allergies: Environmental and food allergies are the most common underlying cause of recurring ear infections in dogs.
• Moisture: Swimming in East Texas lakes or frequent bathing can leave water trapped in the ear canal.
• Ear mites: These parasites are especially common in puppies and kittens and cause intense itching and dark, crumbly debris.
• Ear anatomy: Breeds with floppy ears or hairy canals, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Poodles, are more prone to infections.
• Foreign material: Grass awns and other plant material can work their way into the ear canal.

Signs of an Ear Infection

Common signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, a bad odor, brown, yellow, or bloody discharge, redness or swelling, pain when the ears are touched, and tilting the head. Severe or deep infections may cause loss of balance or a swollen ear flap, called an aural hematoma, from vigorous head shaking.

How We Diagnose Ear Infections

Our veterinarians examine the ear canal and eardrum with an otoscope, then perform ear cytology under our state-of-the-art microscope to identify whether bacteria, yeast, or mites are present. This step matters because each organism requires a different medication. Chronic or resistant infections may require a culture through our diagnostic laboratory partners, or a deeper look using video otoscopy and endoscopic tools.

Treatment for Ear Infections

Treatment typically includes a thorough in-hospital ear cleaning followed by prescription ear medication applied at home, available through our pharmacy. Painful or severe infections may need oral medications or anti-inflammatories, and some pets need sedation for a complete deep cleaning. We always schedule a recheck to confirm the infection is fully resolved, since stopping treatment early is a common reason infections return.

Preventing Repeat Ear Infections

Controlling underlying allergies, drying the ears after swimming or baths, and cleaning ears with a veterinary-approved cleanser as recommended can help keep infections from coming back. Regular grooming appointments include ear cleaning and hair management for breeds that need it, and routine wellness exams give us a chance to catch early changes.

Ear Infection FAQs

Schedule an Ear Exam in Tyler

Ear infections are painful and tend to get worse without treatment. Call (903) 617-6072 to book an appointment with our veterinary team.

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