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Piel y pelo

Otitis (ear infection)

Inflammation of the ear canal. Very common, especially in dogs with floppy ears. It is almost always secondary to another problem (allergy, mites, moisture).

ModerateDogsCats

Mizuu editorial teamupdated on October 14, 2026Not yet reviewed by a vet. Are you a vet? Review itReport an error

Reference sources: ESCCAP España · WSAVA · LeishVet · Manual MSD de Veterinaria

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Head shaking and scratching at the ears
  • • Bad smell from the ear
  • • Discharge (dark wax, pus)
  • • Redness and inflammation of the canal
  • • Pain when the ear is touched
  • • Head tilt towards the affected side

Causes

Almost always secondary: allergies (the most common cause of recurrent otitis), mites, trapped moisture (dogs that swim, floppy ears), foreign bodies (grass awns), excess hair in the canal.

Diagnosis

Examination with an otoscope plus cytology of the discharge (identifies bacteria, yeast or mites). It is important to find the underlying CAUSE.

Treatment

Ear cleaning plus specific topical treatment according to the agent (antibiotic, antifungal, antiparasitic). KEY: treat the underlying cause or the otitis recurs again and again.

Prevention

Dry the ears well after bathing or swimming, check them after country walks (grass awns), treat underlying allergies, and do not use cotton buds deep in the canal.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your pet shakes its head, scratches at its ears or there is a bad smell. Do not clean deeply or apply products without a diagnosis — if the eardrum is perforated, some products are harmful.

Consult a vet

This guide points you in the right direction and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Mizuu accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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Otitis (ear infection) in pets: symptoms, causes and treatment