My dog is lethargic after ear infection meds. Is it a side effect?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Depending on the cause of the infection (bacteria or fungi) different medications may be prescribed. Steroids are typically given to reduce inflammation and pain. At times, this action is sufficient to take care of a mild infection because it prevents from further scratching and self trauma. If the Seamus is still having the same signs, he should be seen by his vet, or a different veterinarian for a second opinion. His lethargy may be unrelated, so it is important to have him evaluated for that as well. I hope all is well and that Seamus feels better soon!

I'm sorry to hear that Loki isn't feeling great. If his ears are really sore, that could certainly make him more sleepy than usual. He should start feeling much better after about 3 days on the ear medications - if he's not perking up I would recommend giving your vet a call to see if they want him to come back in. It's fine to give the Malmetazone twice daily. The website will list the way the product was approved to be used or the way the manufacturer recommends it be used, but we frequently modify these recommendations to meet the needs of individual patients or based on more recent research. I would recommend continuing to give both treatments as recommended. I hope Loki is feeling better soon! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and let me know if this was helpful information.

This depends on the drug that was given but it is possibly a side effect. Also remember that ear infections themselves can cause lethargy or “off” behavior as can the stress of visiting the vet. Don’t panic unless you see vomiting, diarrhea, facial swelling, collapse, or other worrisome signs. If you’re seeing any of those, get to an emergency vet IMMEDIATLEY as these could be signs of a severe allergic reaction. Best of luck and I hope Baby is feeling better soon!

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry that Bear is having this issue. Yes, I do think you should take him to MedVet today as an urgent appointment. Typically steroids (like Prednisone) actually increase appetite so I am concerned that he has not eaten in 48 hours despite being on steroids. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Lethargy is not typically caused by ear mites. I would think the lethargy may be related to the coughing. Coughing can be a sign of many conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Chico evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Likely diagnostics to be performed include thoracic radiographs and bloodwork. Treatment would be dependent on findings. Good luck and have a good night!


Based on your description, I would suspect as well that Sheila isn't suffering from the ear infection still, but keep in mind that I can't say this for certain without seeing her in person. She may be feeling lethargic, which is a very general sign of illness, and I would keep an eye on her for now. Should this lethargy continue over the next 48 hours, I would have Sheila seen by a vet for a health check.

Prednisone can absolutely cause behavior changes and mood alterations. The side effects are usually at their greatest during the first two to four week of therapy as the body grows accustomed to glucocorticoid drugs. The metronidazole is not likely a cause of any side effects you are currently seeing. If you are consulting with a oncologist regarding Pepe's case, do not hesitate to contact them with any questions involving his therapy. These cases can often be complex and require a lot of special attention to drug interactions. Anyway, if you require further consultation please let me know. Hope this makes sense.