Ear Infection in Cats
Ear infections are not a common condition for cats, but when they do appear the cause can be complex - from a mass, foreign object in the ear canal or a secondary condition to allergies.
Outer ear infections can quickly spread to the middle and inner ear, and eventually lead to symptoms ranging from odor to discolored discharge and hearing loss.
The condition requires qualified and effective medical treatment by a veterinarian. In this post, our Waxhaw vets tell you which signs to look for, when to see your vet, and more.
Causes of Ear Infection in Cats
Ear infections are generally a secondary condition (the result of an underlying health issue), unless your furry friend contracts ear mites from another animal. Cats with a weak immune system, allergies or diabetes are more susceptible to ear infections.
The skin lining in the ear canal can become irritated, leading to inflammation. This causes excess wax production and creates an environment where bacteria and yeast (which are normally present in the ear canal) grow out of control.
More inflammation and itchiness follow, causing an itch scratch cycle and apparent symptoms of ear rubbing, scratching, clawing and headshaking.
Here are some factors that we know can potentially cause infections of the external ear and middle ear (otitis media):
- Diseases that suppress the immune system
(Feline Leukemia Virus or FIV) - Irritants in the environment
- Autoimmune diseases
- Allergic reactions to pollen, food, etc.
- Wax buildup in the ear canal
- Foreign bodies in the ear canal
- Thick fur or hair in the ear canal
- Excessive bacteria, yeast or both
- Polyps or tumors in the ear canal
- Incorrect ear cleaning
- Ruptured eardrum
- Diabetes mellitus
Infections of the outer ear canal (otitis externa) - which are not as common in cats as they are in dogs - can spread to the middle ear (media) or inner ear (interna). Ear mite infestation is the most common cause of feline otitis externa.
Signs of Ear infection in Cats
Is your cat pawing at his or her ear, or looking otherwise uncomfortable? They may have an ear infection. Other symptoms of ear infection your cat may display include:
- Yellowish or black discharge
- Head tilting in the direction of the painful ear
- Ear discharge that resembles coffee grounds (sign of ear mites)
- Hearing loss
- Strong odor
- Waxy buildup near or on the canal
- Disorientation or loss of balance
- Swelling or redness in the ear canal or on the ear flap
While healthy ears are pale pink in color and have no visible debris or odor, and minimal or no wax, infected ears are often red or swollen, or will have an odor.
How Ear Infections in Cats Are Diagnosed
Your vet will start by using an otoscope to look into your cat’s ear canal, then taking a sample of ear debris to examine under a microscope to determine whether bacteria, yeast, or ear mites are causing the issue. If you bring your cat in for routine exams, your vet may be able to detect early signs of infection before they develop into long-term problems. We also have an in-house laboratory that allows us to perform tests and receive results quickly and effectively.
How to Treat Ear Infection in Cats
Treatment for feline ear infections isn’t typically complicated. To begin, your vet may need to clip the fur around the cat’s ear canal to help keep it clean and dry.
If the infection has reached the middle ear but the eardrum is untouched, oral or injectable antibiotics prescribed by your vet may help clear up the infection.
If the cause is determined to be a bacterial or yeast infection, or ear mites, your vet may prescribe corticosteroids, anti-fungals, antibiotics or anti-parasitics in ear drop form.
As for at-home treatments, continue checking your cat’s ear to check that the interior of the ear flap is clean and that the canal is clear. If your vet has prescribed ear drops, gently lift the ear flap, then squeeze the solution into the ear canal, massaging the base of the ear to help the medicine work its way into the ear canal.
It is imperative to have these infections treated early - as soon as you notice your pet is uncomfortable - since ear infections can turn chronic and lead to facial paralysis and hearing loss.
Chronic Ear Infection in Cats
Do you find your cat is getting chronic ear infections? This can be caused by growths, allergies, parasites and more. If you find your cat has a long-lasting or recurring ear infection that’s making their ears itchy or painful, discuss this with your vet, as he or she may be able to prescribe a medication to help reduce tissue swelling inside the canal.
Occasionally, surgery will be needed to correct the problem and remove swollen tissue that has blocked or narrowed the canal.
Preventing Your Cat From Getting an Ear Infection
The best way to prevent painful ear infections in cats is to regularly check the ear to ensure there’s no odor, residue, redness, swelling or other symptoms. Have any issues treated before they worsen, and ask your veterinarian to show you how to correctly clean your cat’s ears, or bring them in for regular cleanings.
Unless your vet instructs you to do so, do not insert cleaning devices into your cat’s ear canal itself.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.