Pet ear infections - signs to notice and why a vet should check the cause

April 01, 2022 · Updated September 26, 2026 · Pet Health · By Collar.pet

Frequent head shaking, ear scratching, redness, discharge, a strong smell or pain when the ear is touched are reasons to contact a veterinary practice. They do not prove that an infection is present. Ear problems can have different causes, and treatment depends on what an examination finds.

What to do

• Note when the signs started, whether one or both ears are affected, and whether your pet has had similar problems before.
• Take a photo of visible changes if your pet allows it. Do not push a camera, cotton bud or other object into the ear.
• Call your vet for advice, especially if your pet seems painful, has a head tilt, loses balance, or the ear is swollen or bleeding. Ask how quickly they need to be seen.
• Do not use leftover drops, human medicine, peroxide, alcohol or home remedies. Some products can irritate the ear or be unsafe if the eardrum is damaged.
• Clean only if your veterinary team advises it, using the product and method they recommend. Not every pet needs routine cleaning, and over-cleaning can irritate healthy ears.

Your vet may examine a sample to check what is causing the problem and may recommend a recheck to confirm it has cleared. Follow the treatment instructions for the full period advised, and ask before stopping early—even if the ear looks better. The VCA ear-care guidance explains why a veterinarian should choose the cleaner and why cotton-tipped applicators should be avoided.

Reduce avoidable irritation

Keep a note of swimming, grooming products, seasonal itching and previous ear episodes to discuss at the appointment. If the same problem returns, tell the vet rather than repeating an old treatment. A recurring issue may need investigation for an underlying trigger. This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan.