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Home Care of the Cat with an Ear Infection

An ear infection, also known by the medical term Otitis Externa in Cats (which means inflammation of the outer ear), is a common condition that may affect more than 20% of all cats. In fact, it is one of the top 20 reasons cats go to their veterinarian.

Below are some common questions cat owners ask about ear infections. The focus of this article will be how you can help your pet at home.

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What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection is an infection of the ear canal. Most commonly, it occurs in the outer ear but it can also extend to the inner ear.

What Causes Ear Infection in Cats?

Several factors can predispose cats to ear infections including infectious problems such as ear mites, allergies, trauma, tumors, foreign material in the ears, and generalized skin diseases.

A common question pet owners ask is, “How can I treat an ear infection at home?

Cat Ear Infection Treatment at Home

Specific treatments of ear infections are dependent on the underlying cause. Here is the general approach to treating ear infections:

Be able to hold your cat to evaluate the ear. If you notice blood or extreme redness and irritation, the best thing to do is to see your veterinarian. Many infections require prescription antibiotics.

If your cat is shaking their head and/or has ear discharge and you cannot take your cat to your veterinarian (which is recommended), then you may try the following:

If possible, clean the debris from the ear. Use a commercial ear cleaner, which you can get at your veterinarian’s office or at many pet stores. Here are some tips on how to clean your cat’s ear.

This is important! If the infection continues at any time, or if other cat ear infection symptoms are noted, call your veterinarian promptly. If your pet is not eating, acts lethargic, is vomiting or is having diarrhea, or if any other physical abnormalities begin, it is important to see your veterinarian.

Your pet needs your help and the professional care your veterinarian can provide. If your pet is having the clinical signs mentioned above, expect your veterinarian to perform some diagnostic tests and make treatment recommendations. Recommendations will be dependent upon the severity and nature of the clinical signs.

AND REMEMBER: Only prescribed medications. Please check with your veterinarian before giving ANY medications to your cat. Do not put anything in your cat’s ear that was not made for the ear.

When Is an Ear Infection an Emergency?

An ear infection is an emergency when your cat is in pain, you cannot touch or look in your cat’s ear, the ear is red and swollen, and/or your cat has a head tilt. All ear infections should be examined and treated by a veterinarian.