Ear Infection in Cats

While cats are not commonly known for experiencing ear infections, an underlying health issue could be causing the ones that do happen, and your kitty may need veterinary attention. Today, our Seattle vets list some causes, symptoms and treatments for ear infections in cats.

Ear Infection in Cats

While ear infections are not common in cats, when they do occur there may be one or more serious underlying causes triggering the condition. 

That is why it is critical to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible to have the ear infection treated. Although an outer ear infection is simple to treat, it can swiftly progress to the middle ear before reaching your cat's inner ear. Hearing loss in cats can result from untreated ear infections.

Causes of Ear Infection in Cats

Typically, ear infections in cats point to an underlying health condition - unless your furry family member has contracted ear mites. If your cat has diabetes, allergies or a weak immune system, they will likely be more vulnerable to ear infections than cats that don't experience these health issues. 

Too much yeast might potentially cause an ear infection in your cat. Excess wax is formed when the skin lining the interior of the ear canal becomes inflamed and irritated, allowing naturally existing yeast and bacteria to flourish uncontrollably. Many cats will develop an ear infection as a result of this.

By this point, your cat is likely feeling uncomfortable and itchy, causing an itch-scratch cycle which will lead to common, noticeable ear infection symptoms including headshaking, ear rubbing, clawing and scratching. 

Some common causes of external (outer) and middle ear (otitis media) infections in cats are:

While cats do not get outer ear infections (otitis externa) as often as dogs do, when they do happen they can quickly spread to the middle ear (media) or inner ear (interna) if not treated. The most common cause of outer ear infection in cats is ear mite infestation.

Signs of Ear infection in Cats

If your cat is pawing at their ear or looking otherwise uncomfortable, they may be feeling the effects of an ear infection. Other symptoms of ear infection your cat may display include:

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

When it comes to inner or outer cat ear infections, early diagnosis and treatment are key, since inner ear infections in cats can have serious consequences for long-term health. Untreated ear infections can lead to chronic infections, permanent damage, hearing loss and facial paralysis. Your vet will start by examining your cat’s ear canal, then take a sample of ear debris to examine under a microscope in order to determine whether bacteria, yeast, or ear mites are causing the issue.

How to Treat Ear Infection in Cats

Treatment for feline ear infections is generally straightforward. To begin your veterinarian may clip the fur around your kitty’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 may be given to clear up the infection. For cats with ear infections caused by bacterial or yeast infections, or ear mites, they may be treated with corticosteroids, antifungals, antibiotics or anti-parasitics in ear drop form.

Once at home, you'll need to keep an eye on your cat's ears to ensure that the interior of the ear flap is clean and the canal is clear. If your veterinarian has recommended ear drops, gently lift the ear flap and push the solution into the ear canal, massage the base of the ear to assist the medicine work its way in.

Chronic Ear Infection in Cats

Chronic ear infections in your cat could be caused by growths, allergies, parasites, and other factors. If your cat has a long-term or reoccurring ear infection that is making their ears itchy or painful, consult with your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe a medicine to assist minimize tissue swelling inside the canal.

Surgery will be necessary to correct the problem and remove swollen tissue that has blocked or narrowed the canal, but this is rare.

Preventing Your Cat From Getting an Ear Infection

The simplest method to avoid unpleasant ear infections in cats is to periodically inspect your cat's ears for odor, residue, redness, swelling, or other indications. Treat any problems as soon as possible, and ask your doctor to instruct you how to properly 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.

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.

Is your cat showing signs of an ear infection? Contact our Seattle vets to book an appointment for your kitty companion today.