Rabbit ear problems and scratching
Persistent ear scratching, head shaking, crusty scabs, or discharge in a rabbit usually means ear mites or an ear infection and needs veterinary care — promptly, and urgently if it comes with a head tilt, balance loss, or your rabbit is off its food. Do not pick at ear crusts, which are painful, and avoid over-the-counter mite products without veterinary advice.
Fast answer for owners
- Go now if: Ear problem with a head tilt, rolling, or balance loss; Severe pain, not eating, or lethargy; Sudden swelling at the base of the ear.
- Call today if: Scratching with crusty scabs inside the ear; Head shaking or a bad smell from the ear.
- Do not: Ask the vet before giving medicines, forced feeding, home remedies, or delaying care.
- Tell the vet: Record last eating, drinking, droppings, urination, behaviour change, pain signs, temperature, toxins, trauma, and medications.
Go to a vet now if
- Ear problem with a head tilt, rolling, or balance loss
- Severe pain, not eating, or lethargy
- Sudden swelling at the base of the ear
Call a vet today if
- Scratching with crusty scabs inside the ear
- Head shaking or a bad smell from the ear
What to tell the vet
- Which ear and how long
- Crusts, discharge, or smell
- Any head tilt or balance change
- Appetite and behaviour
- Other rabbits affected
- Weight and conditions
What not to do
- Do not pull off ear crusts (very painful)
- Do not use leftover or dog/cat ear products
- Do not delay if a head tilt appears
What your vet may check
Your vet may examine deep into the ear, test for mites and infection, and check for inner-ear involvement that can affect balance.
Recovery support after veterinary assessment
Treatment is vet-led; if eating dips during treatment, feeding support such as RodiCare Appetit may be advised.
Frequently asked questions
What do rabbit ear mites look like?
Ear mites cause thick crusty scabs inside the ear, scratching, and head shaking. A vet can confirm with a quick test and prescribe safe treatment.
Can an ear infection cause head tilt?
Yes. Infection reaching the inner ear can cause a head tilt and balance loss, which needs prompt veterinary care.
Are over-the-counter mite treatments safe for rabbits?
Not always. Some are unsafe or ineffective for rabbits. Use only what your vet prescribes after examining the ears.
Related emergency guides
Sources & standards
Emergency guidance follows RWAF, House Rabbit Society, and exotic small-mammal medicine standards, source-cited and pending named veterinary review.
Related pages in this emergency hub
Source-cited guidance; pending named veterinary review.