Ear Infection in Cats - Signs & Treatment

Ear infections in cats are a common yet concerning issue for many pet owners. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments can help ensure your feline friend receives the best care possible. This blog post will cover how to treat a cat's ear infection, the duration of these infections, and what causes them.

Ear Infection in Cats

At All Care Pet Clinic, our team rarely encounters cats suffering from ear infections. However, when they do, there is often a more serious underlying cause. Suppose you suspect your feline family member has an ear infection.

In that case, it is important to seek veterinary care as quickly as possible to pinpoint the cause of your cat's sore ear and prevent the infection from becoming more severe. Left untreated, ear infections in cats can result in hearing loss and ongoing discomfort for your cat.

What causes ear infections in cats?

Ear mite infestation is the leading cause of outer ear infections in cats. These parasites can easily spread between pets and should be promptly treated to prevent the condition from worsening and spreading.

In some cases, cat ear infections occur when the skin lining in the ear canal becomes irritated, leading to inflammation.

Cats with weaker immune systems, allergies, diabetes, or other health issues are more prone to ear infections than those with better overall health. Below is a list of some common causes of outer and middle ear infections in cats:

Inner ear infections in cats can result from untreated severe outer ear infections. 

What are the signs of ear infection in cats?

If your cat is scratching at their ear or constantly shaking their head and showing signs of discomfort, they may have an ear infection. Other indications of an ear infection in cats include:

The insides of healthy cat ears are typically pale pink in color and have no visible signs of debris or wax. There should also be no odor associated with your kitty's ears. Infected cat ears often appear red or swollen and may be smelly.

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

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 issue.

If you bring your kitty in for regular checkups, 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 long do ear infections last in cats?

The duration of an ear infection in cats can vary based on its severity and cause. Mild infections may resolve within a week or two with proper treatment. More severe or chronic ear infections can take several weeks to months to heal fully. Persistent infections might require ongoing management to prevent recurrence.

How are cat ear infections treated?

The question of how to treat ear infections in cats typically has a straightforward answer. 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 may clear up the infection.

Bacterial ear infections in cats, ear yeast infections, or ear mites may be treated with corticosteroids, antifungals, antibiotics, or anti-parasitics in ear drops.

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

Early treatment of infections is essential to avoid increasing the severity of the infection, which 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 cat suffering from chronic ear infections? Growths, allergies, parasites, and more can cause chronic ear issues. If your cat has a long-lasting or recurring ear infection that makes their ears itchy or painful, discuss this with your vet.

They may be able to prescribe medication to help reduce tissue swelling inside the ear 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 no odor, residue, redness, swelling, or other symptoms. If you have any issues treated before they worsen, 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.

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.

If you're concerned about the health of your cat's ears, contact All Care Pet Clinic right away to book an examination for your kitty.