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My dog's ears smell sour and he's scratching. Is it ear mites?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 years and 11 months old | 10 lbs

Today I noticed a sour smell coming from Jude's ears. There is no discharge and his ears look clean. He has attempted to itch inside of his ears a few times. He just went to the vet last week. Could this be related to his constipation and lack of appetite?(reason for vet visit). Could this be the start of ear mites? If so, what are the symptoms and treatments? If not, what else could be the cause, and what are the symptoms and treatments? Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on March 12th, 2020

Ear issues are not usually related to bowel ones unless there is a food allergy ongoing. A strange smell would make me think a yeast or bacterial infection (think corn chips) , however ear mites can also smell off. I would try to keep the ears clean and dry and if the smell continues, worsens, or you see actual discharge, bring Jude into the vet to have them looked at.
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