At Bungendore Veterinary Surgery, we frequently see pets, especially dogs, struggling with ear problems. It’s not uncommon for owners to notice their furry friends shaking their heads, scratching at their ears, or even rubbing them along the ground. Some pets might even cry out when they scratch or when their ears are touched, signalling discomfort that shouldn’t be ignored.  Recognising the signs early and understanding the causes can help you take the right steps to keep your pet comfortable and healthy. One of the first things to look out for is a change in your pet’s behaviour. If they are shaking their head more than usual, scratching at their ears, or showing signs of redness and swelling, it’s time to take a closer look. A bad odour coming from the ears, discharge, or crusting around the ear canal are also red flags that something isn’t quite right.

Why Do Pets Get Ear Infections?

There are several common reasons why pets develop ear issues. Infections are one of the main culprits. Unlike humans, dogs and cats have longer and narrower ear canals, which makes them more prone to bacterial and yeast infections, especially in warm or humid conditions. Breeds with floppy ears, like Spaniels and Basset Hounds, are particularly vulnerable since limited airflow can create the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.

Allergies can also play a big role in ear problems. Whether caused by environmental allergens, food, or fleas, allergic reactions often lead to inflammation, redness, and swelling, which in turn cause itchiness and discomfort. This constant irritation can also lead to secondary infections, making the situation even worse.

In young animals, ear mites are another common issue. These tiny parasites cause intense irritation and are often accompanied by dark, coffee-ground-like debris in the ear canal. If your pet is constantly scratching at their ears, mites could be the reason.

Foreign objects, such as grass seeds, can also cause trouble—something we see quite often, particularly in the warmer months. If your dog has just been for a walk in the long grass and suddenly seems very bothered by their ear, a lodged grass seed could be the culprit. These tiny seeds can cause significant discomfort and often require veterinary attention to remove them safely.

Some dogs, especially breeds like Poodles and Poodle crosses, are prone to excessive ear wax buildup. Too much wax can trap dirt and moisture, creating a breeding ground for infections.

Getting the Right Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect your pet has an ear problem, the best course of action is to bring them in for a check-up. Our veterinarians will carefully examine their ears, and if necessary, perform tests such as ear swabs to determine the cause of the issue. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve cleaning the ears with veterinary-approved solutions, prescribing antibiotics or antifungal medications, or addressing underlying allergies with a tailored management plan.

Prevention is always better than cure, and there are a few simple steps you can take to help keep your pet’s ears healthy. Regularly checking their ears for redness, debris, or excessive wax can help you catch problems early. If your dog loves swimming or gets bathed often, drying their ears gently afterward can prevent moisture-related infections. For pets with recurring ear issues, discussing a long-term management plan with your veterinarian can make a big difference. And if you live in an area with lots of long grass, avoiding these areas in the warmer months can significantly reduce the risk of grass seeds getting lodged in their ears.

By staying informed and proactive about your pet’s ear health, you can help prevent discomfort and more serious complications down the track. If you ever have concerns about your pet’s ears, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Bungendore Veterinary Surgery. We’re always here to help keep your furry friends happy and healthy!