Ear infections in cats

Ear infections in cats are less common compared to those in dogs. The majority of ear infections are caused by bacteria and/or yeast. With proper treatment, they generally resolve promptly, although some may be more severe. Many ear infections have an underlying cause, such as ear mites or allergies. Without addressing the underlying cause, they may recur frequently.

Ear infections are called otitis and can affect different parts of the ear. Infections of the outer ear: the flap and the canal are called otitis externa. This is the most common location for ear infections in cats. Cats suffering from allergies or those with abnormally shaped ears are at a higher risk of ear infections. Ear mites can also cause an infection, this is more common in kittens.

Overview

What are ear infections in cats?

Ear infections in cats are usually caused by a bacterial and/or yeast infection:

Mostly secondary to an underlying cause, such as food allergies or ear mites.
Symptoms can appear suddenly or over the course of a few days.
Ear infections can be easy to treat if caught early. Uncomplicated infections should clear within 1-2 weeks with appropriate treatment.
If not treated early, the ear can become damaged and thickened. Then, treatment becomes difficult.
If the underlying cause is not controlled, ear infections can come back frequently.
Any age or breed of cat can develop an ear infection.

Most ear infections in cats are mild and easy to treat if caught quickly. However, they can worsen and lead to pain. Speak to one of our Joii vets as soon as possible if your cat has any ear problems.

In this article, we discuss the most common type of ear infection, otitis externa. Follow the link to find out about ear mites, otitis media and otitis internal.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ear infections in cats

The most common signs of an ear infection in cats include:

Head shaking or scratching their ears
A brown, red, yellow or black discharge in the ears
The ear canal looks red and is smelly
Sores or scratches around the ears
Prolonged infections can lead to thickening and narrowing of the canal

Ear infections in cats — Waxy, red or smelly ears can indicate an infection

If left untreated, constant head shaking can lead to an aural haematoma.

Risk

Are some cats more at risk of ear infections than others?

Any cat, regardless of age or breed, can develop an ear infection.

Breeds at greater risk due to their ear shape: Scottish Fold, Himalayan, and Persian cats.
Regular exposure to moisture, such as too frequent or incorrect cleaning.
Immunocompromised cats, such as those with FIV or FeLV, are at a higher risk of developing ear infections.

Diagnosis

How are ear infections diagnosed in cats?

For first-time infections:

A thorough physical exam with a scope to look in the ear may be all that is needed.
Ideally, your vet will look at a swab from the ear. They will use it to see what cells are present and if the cause is bacterial, yeast or both.

Recurring or severe infection:

An ear exam and flush under sedation or anaesthetic
Swabs from the ear sent off for culture

Vet treatment

What’s the treatment for ear infections in cats?

Most cases of ear infections in cats are treated with ear drops and ear cleaners:

Medicated ear drops usually contain antibiotic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties
Cleaners are used to remove discharge. Using them can also improve the efficacy of the medicated drops.

Other treatments include:

Anti-itch medication
Pain relief
Surgery for chronic problems

Home treatment

How to help your cat with an ear infection at home

Use the medication as advised by your vet. Don’t skip doses. If you are struggling to apply ear drops or cleaners, let your vet know right away. An alternative may be an option.
Read our article that helps explain how to apply ear drops at home
Check your cat’s ears regularly; if the symptoms are getting worse, speak to a vet as soon as possible.
A buster or inflatable collar helps to prevent self-trauma to the skin around the ears.
Using a special diet may help reduce the symptoms, such as Hills Prescription Diet d/d or z/d.

Some mild ear infections may clear with a medicated cleaner. Speak to our Joii vets for more information.

Tips on how to live with a cat with recurrent ear infections

The majority of ear infections are due to underlying problems, mostly allergies or ear mites. Treating your cat’s allergies can reduce or even cure ear infections.

Allergies can be investigated by:

Doing a diet trial with a hydrolysed or novel protein diet for at least 8 weeks
Making sure your cat is on regular parasite preventative for fleas and mites
Trialling an anti-inflammatory medication with your vet
Intradermal allergy testing with your vet

Regular, but not too frequent, ear cleaning can help prevent recurrent ear infections. Use a pH-neutral cleaner that is formulated for routine cleaning. Cleaning every 10-14 days or as often as advised by your vet.

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent ear infections in cats

Speak to a vet as soon as ear problems begin. Ear disease is easier to treat in the beginning. Before the ear becomes thickened or develops resistant infections.
Make sure your cat is up-to-date on parasite preventatives for fleas and mites.
Reduce moisture: keep ears as dry as possible at all times.
Keep the hair around the entrance to the ear as short as possible to allow good ventilation.