Ear Infections in Dogs & Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Ear Infections in Dogs & Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Ear infections in dogs and cats are a common issue for pet owners across the UK. While they may start as mild irritation, they can quickly become painful without treatment. Knowing the signs early and acting quickly can help protect your pet’s health and comfort.
What Causes Ear Infections in Pets?
- Ear infections (otitis) can develop for several reasons, including:
- Bacteria or yeast overgrowth
- Allergies (environmental or food-related) - we stock a range of hypoallergenic & sensitive diets for dogs - see our range here.
- Ear mites (common in cats and young animals)
- Moisture build-up (especially in swimming dogs)
- Foreign bodies such as grass seeds
- Wax build-up or poor airflow in the ear
In many cases, ear infections are secondary to an underlying issue, such as allergies.
Breeds More Prone to Ear Problems
Certain breeds are more susceptible due to ear shape or hair growth.
Dogs at higher risk include:
- Cocker Spaniels
- Basset Hounds
- Labradors and Golden Retrievers
- Poodles and Cockapoos
- Bulldogs
Cats are less commonly affected, but breeds like Scottish Folds or those with allergies may be more prone.
Routine ear checks are especially important for these pets.
Signs & Symptoms of Ear Infections
Watch out for:
- Head shaking or tilting
- Scratching at ears
- Redness or swelling
- Bad odour
- Discharge (brown, yellow, or black)
- Sensitivity or pain
- Behaviour changes
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly.
Grass Seed Season: A Common Cause of Ear Problems
During spring and summer in the UK, grass seeds are a frequent cause of sudden ear issues.
These sharp seeds can become lodged in your pet’s ear during walks or outdoor roaming.
If your dog or cat has been in grassy areas and suddenly shows:
- Head shaking
- Intense scratching
- Signs of discomfort
…it may be a grass seed.
Contact your vet immediately, as grass seeds can travel deeper into the ear and cause serious complications.
What Should You Do If You Suspect an Ear Infection?
- Contact your vet and book an appointment
- Follow all treatment advice carefully
- You are entitled to request a written prescription if medication is prescribed. This allows you to purchase treatment online, which is often more cost-effective.
Treatment Options for Ear Infections
Depending on the cause, your vet may recommend:
- Medicated ear drops
- Cleaning solutions such as Otodine
- Anti-inflammatory treatments
- Parasite treatments
- Allergy management
To support treatment and ongoing ear health, regular cleaning is often recommended using veterinary-approved products such as Otodine Ear Cleaner.
Can Ear Infections Be Prevented?
While not always avoidable, you can reduce risk by:
- Checking ears regularly
- Using ear cleaning solutions such as Otodine Ear Cleaner
- Drying ears after swimming
- Managing allergies
- Avoiding long grass during peak grass seed season
- Consistent ear care plays a key role in prevention.
Supporting Your Pet’s Recovery
With prompt treatment, most ear infections resolve quickly.
If your pet has been prescribed medication, Farm Vet Supplies stocks a wide range of treatments to support ear health. With a valid veterinary prescription, you can order online—often at a lower cost than purchasing directly from your vet.
Need help choosing the right product?
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Explore our range of ear care products for dogs and cats or contact our team for expert guidance.-
Posted by Farm Vet Supplies
13th April 2026
SUPPLYING TO FARMERS, VETERINARY PRACTICES & PET OWNERS ACROSS THE UK, ROI AND NORTHERN IRELAND