How to tell if my dog has an ear infection? Does my cat have ear mites? Learn from Dr. Marty Greer, DVM, as she explores ear infections, chronic inflammation, ear mites and common ear issues in dogs and cats. This expert-led webinar covers causes, prevention, and effective treatments to keep pets comfortable and healthy. Gain valuable insights and practical solutions to manage ear problems with confidence. Watch now!

*This is just a brief overview—watch the full webinar for in-depth details!

Ear Mites in Cats and Dogs: Causes & Treatment

Ear mites are uncommon in dogs but can occasionally trigger an ear infection, particularly in puppies exposed to infected animals. Unlike in cats, where mites thrive long-term, mites in dogs tend to disappear on their own. If you’re treating your dog for ear mites, the real issue is likely something else, such as a bacterial or yeast infection.

Ear mites in cats are a common and persistent problem, often leading to chronic ear issues. Unlike dogs, who rarely get ear mites, cats can suffer from them for long periods, even after treatment. If you suspect your kitten or adult cat has ear mites, it is essential to consult a veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Ear mites are commonly transmitted from cats to dogs, but the infestation is short-lived in dogs and typically does not spread to humans.

Ear mite symptoms in cats include frequent ear scratching, a brown discharge from the ear, and a strong, musty smell. The discharge often resembles that of a yeast infection, making it easy to confuse the two. However, ear mites and yeast infections are different conditions that require different treatments. A veterinary exam with magnification is crucial to distinguish between ear mites and a yeast infection, as they have distinct microscopic characteristics. Treating ear mites early in cats is key to preventing long-term ear problems, so seek professional care as soon as you notice any symptoms.

If your pet has ear mites, treatment with specific ear mite medications is essential. Products like Eradimite and Mitex, work by suffocating and eliminating mites with active ingredients such as pyrethrin, ivermectin, or selamectin. Another effective option is Revolt® for dogs or cats, a topical, prescription treatment that provides broad-spectrum parasite control, including heartworms, fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and ear mites. Applied monthly to the back of the neck, Revolt is an excellent preventive solution for pets that spend time outdoors and may bring parasites inside.

Using an otoscope, veterinarians can identify ear mites as tiny white moving specks in the ear canal. Under a microscope, mites appear with legs and egg clusters, highlighting their rapid reproduction cycle, which causes intense itching and discomfort in pets. If your dog or cat is excessively scratching their ears, shaking their head, or showing signs of irritation, mites could be the culprit.

What Causes Ear Infections?

Ear infections are often triggered by underlying conditions that upset the ear’s natural microbiome. These include:

• Grooming & Water Exposure – Moisture trapped in the ear canal from bathing, swimming, or improper cleaning can lead to infection.

• Breed-Specific Factors – Dogs with heavy, floppy ears (e.g., Spaniels, Retrievers, and Doodles) are more prone to infections due to poor airflow and wax buildup.

• Allergies – Food, pollen, and mold allergies often contribute to chronic ear issues. Ear infections in dogs with allergies are rarely one-time events—they typically require long-term management.

• Narrow Ear Canals – Some breeds naturally have narrow ear canals, while dogs with chronic infections may develop stiffened, mineralized cartilage, worsening the problem over time.

• Foreign Objects – Grass seeds, plant material, or even small objects inserted by children can get lodged in the ear canal, leading to irritation and infection.

• Over-Cleaning – Aggressive cleaning or improper use of ear medications can damage the delicate ear tissue, leading to inflammation and infection.

Ear Infections in Dogs & Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Ear infections are one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats, especially in dogs due to their ear canal shape and hair accumulation. These factors can trap wax, debris, and moisture, leading to bacterial and yeast overgrowth. In certain regions, foxtails and other foreign bodies can enter the ear canal, causing irritation, infections, and even eardrum damage.

Veterinarians use otoscopes and advanced imaging to diagnose and treat ear infections early. Acute ear infections develop suddenly, causing redness, swelling, pain, discharge, and odor, while chronic infections are long-standing or recurring and require long-term management.

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing ear infections from becoming chronic. If your pet shows signs of ear irritation, scratching, head shaking, or odor, seek veterinary care promptly.

Understanding Ear Infections in Dogs: Causes & Risk Factors

Dogs with floppy ears are far more prone to ear infections than those with upright ears, with German Shepherds being a notable exception. The shape of the ear flap affects airflow, moisture retention, and wax buildup, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, and Cavaliers—which have heavy, drooping ears—are especially susceptible.

Another key factor is ear hair growth. Poodles, Schnauzers, and Doodles often have hair growing inside the ear canal, trapping debris and moisture. In contrast, breeds like Corgis and German Shepherds do not grow ear hair, reducing their risk. Limited air circulation, combined with humidity, swimming, allergies, or foreign bodies like foxtails, can further disrupt the ear’s microbiome, leading to infection.

Ear infections generally result from a primary issue (like allergies, mites, or foreign objects), which then triggers secondary bacterial or yeast overgrowth. Predisposing factors such as narrow ear canals (as seen in Shar-Peis), excessive humidity, or irritation from over-cleaning can further worsen the problem. Once an infection sets in, it often becomes a vicious cycle of inflammation, wax buildup, and recurring infections.

Common culprits include specific bacteria like Pseudomonas and abnormal yeast overgrowth. Recognizing early signs of infection—such as redness, swelling, discharge, odor, or head shaking—can help prevent chronic ear issues. Proper ear care, tailored to your dog’s breed and lifestyle, is key to keeping their ears healthy and infection-free.

Levels of Ear Infection Treatment

Bacterial infections can often be identified under a microscope, where they appear as tiny purple dots alongside white blood cells and pus. Some bacteria, like Pseudomonas, have a distinct odor and are notoriously difficult to treat, often requiring veterinary cultures and targeted medications.

Yeast infections are also common and frequently linked to food allergies, mold, or pollen sensitivities. While seasonal allergies (mold and pollen) cause flare-ups at certain times of the year, food allergies typically lead to year-round issues. Yeast infections often produce brown discharge in the ears, on the feet, and around the lips. Dogs with itchy feet will lick and chew excessively, worsening the problem by creating a moist environment where yeast thrives. Even if you try to discourage licking, dogs will continue because of the intense itching—just like scratching a mosquito bite.

Level 1: Early-Stage Ear Infections
For mild infections, a veterinary visit is essential to determine if the infection is caused by yeast, bacteria, or both. A cytology test, performed by swabbing the ear and examining the sample under a microscope, helps identify the appropriate medication. Common prescription combination treatments include Tresaderm, and Animax, which contain an antifungal, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory to target all aspects of infection.

Level 2: Persistent or Recurring Infections
If an infection doesn’t clear up or returns frequently, your veterinarian may recommend an ear culture to identify the specific bacteria present. This allows for a more targeted antibiotic treatment, reducing the chance of antibiotic resistance and saving time and money in the long run. Chronic ear infections are often linked to allergies—food allergies cause year-round issues, while pollen and mold allergies are typically seasonal. If allergies are suspected, a food elimination diet or allergy management plan may be necessary.

In severe cases, additional oral medications such as antibiotics or antifungals may be required. Anti-inflammatory medications like Prednisone or Apoquel can also help reduce ear swelling and discomfort.

Level 3: Advanced Treatment Options

In severe, chronic cases, where all other treatments have failed, surgery may be the only option. If a polyp, growth, or tumor is present, surgery may only involve removing the affected tissue, preserving the rest of the ear canal. However, in cases of relentless ear infections that cause extreme pain, swelling, and irreversible damage, complete removal of the ear canal may be necessary. While this procedure eliminates the source of infection, it does result in permanent deafness in the affected ear.

Because surgery is costly and life-altering, it should only be considered when all other treatments have been exhausted and the dog’s comfort and well-being are at serious risk.

Preventing Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats

• Regular ear cleaning to remove wax, debris, and moisture

• Avoid over-cleaning, which can irritate the ear canal

• Manage allergies (food, pollen, or mold) to reduce inflammation

• Keep ears dry after bathing or swimming to prevent bacterial growth

• Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, odor, excessive scratching)

Chronic ear infections can be frustrating, but with proper care, early intervention, and the right treatments, you can keep your pet comfortable and infection-free. If your pet struggles with recurring ear problems, talk to your veterinarian about customized treatment options and long-term management strategies.

Ear Cleaning, Treatment, and Managing Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats

Keeping your pet’s ears clean is essential for preventing infections and maintaining ear health. Several effective ear cleaners are available, such as Vet Basics Ear Cleaning Solution, which is alcohol-free to avoid irritation. For pets prone to infections, Vet Basics Ear Flush helps combat bacteria and yeast, while products like Malacetic Otic Cleanser and Epi-Otic Advanced offer deep cleaning benefits. Non-prescription ear cleaners are great to have on hand, especially for dogs with floppy ears, as regular cleaning can help prevent wax buildup and infections.

When cleaning your pet’s ears, avoid inserting cotton swabs too deeply, as this can push debris further down into the canal, increasing the risk of a middle or inner ear infection. Instead, use an ear cleaning solution by dripping it into the ear canal, massaging the base of the ear to loosen wax, and gently wiping away debris with a cotton ball or swab. If applying ear medication, allow the ear to dry first so the treatment is more effective. Since dogs tend to shake their heads after cleaning, consider doing this outdoors or in an easy-to-clean area to avoid mess.

*This is just a brief overview—watch the full webinar for in-depth details!