Cat Ear Care

Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny arthropods that live in cat’s ears, which occurs more frequently in kittens. The most noticeable symptom of an ear mite infestation includes continuous scratching of the ear, which could lead to the development of scabs. Usually, ears with an infestation are filled with crumbly, brown material. It is advisable to visit your veterinarian if your cat has ear mite.

Swollen Outer Ear

Sometimes, cats will come home with a swollen ear, which could be the result of a cat fight, other trauma or due to disease. Cats suffering from an ear mite infestation might shake their head as an attempt to lessen itching. This could cause the rupture of a blood vessel, creating a subdermal haematoma (a blood leak under the skin or a bruise). In most cases, the swelling caused by a subdermal haematoma will go away on its own, however, this often causes scar tissue, fibrosis and slight deformity of the ear (a ‘cauliflower ear’). Surgery that removes a subdermal haematoma could prevent this.

Ear Infection

An ear infection is very irritating condition for both humans and animals. If your cat is suffering from an ear infection, they could come across as generally ill, however, there are specific symptoms that could help you recognise it. These symptoms include a build up of ear wax, flakes, red and smelly ears. It is even possible for pus or blood to come out of the infected ear. Vetsend also offers homeopathic methods for combating infection, ear mites and excess ear wax, such as Puur Auris for Dogs & Cats. This ointment helps inhibit inflammation, itchiness and cools the ear. Cats that have been given antibiotics to treat their ear infection could benefit from an ear cleanser such as Epibac. This product helps remove the bacteria’s source of food, which will allow the antibiotics to work quicker.

Ear Wax

Like humans, cats have ear wax that is naturally present, it only becomes a problem once it is in excess. A build up of ear wax is more common in cats that live indoors than ones that frequently go outside. Left untreated, the build up could lead to an ear infection that is very painful and smells bad. In these cases, you can use an ear cleanser to remove excess ear wax. Please note: if there are no clinical signs of excess ear wax, regular cleaning is not necessary. Additionally, you should never use a cotton bud to clean your cat’s ears as this pushes ear wax deeper into the ear. To clean your cat’s ears you can use one of the ear cleaners below, such as the AST Ear Cleaner, which is alcohol free and easy to use as it soaks into the ear wax and other harmful material and removes it from the ear.

If you suspect your cat is suffering from an ear problem, it is recommended to visit your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you and provide a suitable treatment plan.