Signs & Treatment of Ear Infections in Cats

Does your cat have a strong odor emanating from their ears? Perhaps their ears are red and irritated? In this post, our Seattle vets discuss the signs, causes, and treatment options for ear infections in cats. 

Ear Infection in Cats

While ear infections in cats are fairly uncommon, when they do occur there is often a more serious underlying cause. 

If you suspect that your kitty has an ear infection, it's important to seek veterinary care as quickly as possible to identify the cause. A veterinarian can treat the ear infection, which will prevent the infection from spreading and becoming more severe. Left untreated, ear infections in cats can lead to hearing loss and ongoing discomfort for your cat. 

What causes ear infections in cats?

Ear mite infestation is the most common cause of outer ear infections in cats. Ear mites can spread easily between cats and should be treated quickly to help prevent the condition from worsening, and to stop the spread of this problematic parasite. Inner ear infections in cats can also occur due to severe infections of the outer ear that have not received effective treatment.

If your feline friend suffers from a weak immune system, diabetes, allergies, or other health problems, they will be more prone to ear infections than cats with better general health. 

Here is a list of some of the most common causes of outer and middle ear infections in cats:

What are the signs of ear infections in cats?

Your cat may paw at their ear, repeatedly shake their head, or look generally uncomfortable if they have an ear infection. Other signs that your cat may have an ear infection include:

How will my vet diagnose my cat's ear infection?

Your vet will start by using an otoscope to look into your cat’s ear canal, then take a sample of ear debris to examine under a microscope to determine whether bacteria, yeast, or ear mites are causing the infection. If you bring your kitty in for regular checkups, your vet may be able to detect early signs of infection before it develops into long-term problems.

How to Treat Ear Infections in Cats

If the infection has reached the middle ear but the eardrum is untouched, oral or injectable antibiotics may clear up the infection.

Yeast or bacterial ear infections in cats, or ear mites, may be treated with corticosteroids, antifungals, antibiotics, or anti-parasitics in ear drop form.

At-home treatment for your kitty's ear infection involves monitoring the condition of your cat's ears 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.

Otitis interna (inner ear infection) in cats is very serious. If your cat is unable to ear or drink normally due to disorientation or nausea, they will likely need to be hospitalized and have intravenous fluid therapy. The veterinarian may need to sedate or anesthetize your cat to examine the ear tissues adequately, take samples for bacterial culture, and properly clean the ear. 

Early treatment of infections (both inner and outer) is essential to avoid increasing severity of the infection that could lead to recurring, chronic ear infections in cats, or even facial paralysis and hearing loss.

Are chronic ear infections in cats possible?

Is your kitty suffering from chronic ear infections? Chronic ear issues 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 they may be able to prescribe a medication to help reduce tissue swelling inside the canal.

In some rare cases, surgery will be necessary to correct the problem and remove swollen tissue that has blocked or narrowed the ear canal.

How can I prevent my cat from getting an ear infection?

The best way to prevent your kitty from developing a painful ear infection is to regularly check your feline friend's ears 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 your cat in for regular cleanings.

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.

Have you noticed any of the above symptoms if ear infections in your cat? Contact our vets in Seattle right away to book an examination for your feline family member.