If your cat’s been scratching at her ears, she may be trying to tell you something. Watch for these symptoms of ear infections.
Like people, cats could suffer with ear problems. As a pet parent, knowing the signs will allow you to give your kitty the prompt treatment necessary to help her feel better. Check out the information below on some of the different ear problems that felines could develop, as well as the symptoms that are typically associated with each.
Symptoms of Ear Mites
Ear mites are one of the most common causes of ear ailments in felines. These tiny parasites can make their home inside your kitty’s ears, and they’re also contagious between cats. It’s important to get rid of this problem promptly, as mites that are within the external ear canal may eventually end up causing problems within the inner ear as well.
Related:Ear Mites In Cats Lead To Serious Scratching
If your cat has these annoying mites living in her ears, she may scratch around her neck, head, and ears, as well as shake her head. You can look inside the ears to see if you notice what looks like coffee grounds in there. And if you’re able to—and really careful in the process—you could take some out and look for live, white mites moving around; otherwise, leave it up to your vet, who can properly diagnose and treat your kitty’s ear problem.
Symptoms of Ear Infections
A cat could develop an inner ear infection, middle ear infection, or outer ear infection. Here’s a brief overview of some of the symptoms:
Related:How to Tell If Your Cat is Happy
What to Do If You Notice Symptoms of Ear Ailments
If you notice that your kitty is exhibiting the signs that could indicate an ear ailment, getting her to the vet and treating the problem as soon as possible is necessary. Otherwise, an ear infection has the potential of becoming a chronic issue, and it could also potentially lead to more serious problems, such as facial paralysis and deafness. Your vet will be able to determine the cause of the ear problem, whether it’s parasites, a foreign body, a polyp, trauma, allergies, or a deeper underlying condition, as well as provide the appropriate treatment.
In addition to keeping an eye out for the symptoms above, it’s also a good idea to examine your kitty’s ears routinely. You can even talk to your veterinarian about the best methods for safely cleaning your cat’s ears whenever necessary.
