Ear infections are rare in guinea pigs. However, when they do occur, it is usually the result of bacterial infections such as pneumonia or other respiratory diseases. If the ear infections spread from the middle ear to the inner ear, it can become quite serious, even affecting parts of the nervous system. Therefore, if you suspect an ear infection in your guinea pig, seek veterinary care immediately.

Symptoms

• Pus or discharge from the ears
• Ear pain
• Loss of hearing
• Deafness

Also, if the infection spreads from the guinea pig's middle ear to its inner ear, your pet may display problems with its nervous system, such as walking in circles, rolling on the ground, head tilting, and a lack of balance.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Respiratory diseases (e.g., pneumonia)

Diagnosis

Observing the clinical symptoms exhibited by the guinea pig helps confirm an ear infection diagnosis, and is useful in determining whether the infection has spread to the middle ear. Your veterinarian may also examine the guinea pig's blood or pus discharge to identify the infectious agent responsible for the ear infection.