Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Dog crying, scratching ears. Mites? What to do until I see the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 9 months old | 55 lbs

Is this ear mites? He’s been crying when scratching his ears and I just noticed this. I can’t see a vet until Monday. Will he be ok til then? Can I help him other wise with anything at home?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 26th, 2017

No, it is not likely ear mites. Anything is possible but I don't think it is probable. You need to be careful what you put in the ears - if the eardrum has a hole in it using medications that are not approved for the inner/middle ear could be harmful. I suggest you try to keep him from scratching the ears by using a cone collar: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-ecollars?ddkey=https%3ASearchDisplay Of course, it would be best to get him to a vet sooner if the ears are really bothering him that much. You can also try applying a THIN layer of Neosporin on those red spots you can see but don't put in down inside the ear canal. Hope this helps. Best wishes!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    While it could be ear mites, more often it is an ear infection that is either yeast, bacteria, or a mixture of both. These types of infections cause the ears to be very itchy, red and have increased discharge that is smelly. This isn't an emergency, but it needs to be addressed, so it is good that you made an appointment with your veterinarian. Until then, I would place a cone on him so he won't scratch and traumatize his ears further. You could also try a gentle ear cleanser (available at pet stores) to remove some of the debris. I hope this helps and that Zeke gets feeling better soon!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do my hermit crab's mites keep returning? How to get rid of them?
Is your hermit crab battling recurring mites? A certified veterinarian explains why these persistent mites keep coming back and how to effectively address them. Get expert advice!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored