A–Z topic · L
Lop ear infections
Quick answer
**Lop-eared rabbits are prone to ear infections (otitis)** because folded ears trap moisture and wax. Signs include **scratching, discharge, smell, and head tilt**. Always use a **rabbit-savvy vet** — wrong antibiotics or ear drops can be fatal in rabbits.
Key takeaways
- Lop ears fold over the ear canal, reducing airflow and trapping moisture and wax. This makes bacterial and yeast infections more common than in upright-eared breeds.
- Head shaking, scratching at ears, discharge or smell from ears, head tilt, loss of balance, reduced appetite, and pain when ears are touched.
- Yes — middle and inner ear infection can cause head tilt (torticollis) and balance problems. This needs urgent rabbit-savvy veterinary care — not the same as E. cuniculi alone.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do lop rabbits get ear infections?
- Lop ears fold over the ear canal, reducing airflow and trapping moisture and wax. This makes bacterial and yeast infections more common than in upright-eared breeds.
- What are signs of a rabbit ear infection?
- Head shaking, scratching at ears, discharge or smell from ears, head tilt, loss of balance, reduced appetite, and pain when ears are touched.
- Can ear infections cause head tilt in rabbits?
- Yes — middle and inner ear infection can cause head tilt (torticollis) and balance problems. This needs urgent rabbit-savvy veterinary care — not the same as E. cuniculi alone.