Cat Ear Infections: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention

Cat Ear Infections: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Prevention

Published Date

Published Date

January 17, 2025

January 17, 2025

Last Updated

Last Updated

June 17, 2025

June 17, 2025

A Guide to Cat Ear Infections: Everything You Need to Know
A Guide to Cat Ear Infections: Everything You Need to Know
A Guide to Cat Ear Infections: Everything You Need to Know

When your cat starts shaking her head more than usual, something’s off. If she’s scratching at her ears with frustration, it’s a clear sign something’s bothering her. And often, the culprit is hiding in plain sight. Where? Inside the ear.

A cat ear infection might not sound alarming at first. However, it can escalate into a dangerous condition if left unchecked. This is why recognizing the early signs, understanding the causes, and knowing how to treat ear infections in cats is essential. 

Let’s take a deep dive into this common feline health issue.

What Is a Cat Ear Infection?

A cat ear infection, clinically known as otitis, is an inflammation of the ear canal. It may be limited to the outer ear (otitis externa), or it may affect the deeper structures like the middle (otitis media) or inner ear (otitis interna). 

While infections in cats are less frequent than in dogs, they’re often more complex when they do occur.

The deeper the infection travels, the more serious the consequences. Balance issues, hearing loss, and neurological symptoms can develop in advanced cases. That’s why early identification and treatment are key.

How to Tell If Your Cat Has an Ear Infection

Unlike dogs, cats are often masters of masking pain. But when their ears are inflamed or infected, they’ll leave clues. Subtle at first, then increasingly hard to ignore.

Common symptoms of a cat ear infection include:

  • Frequent head shaking or tilting

  • Scratching at one or both ears

  • Redness, warmth, or visible swelling

  • Foul odor emanating from the ear canal

  • Discharge (yellow, brown, or black, often waxy or gritty)

  • Sensitivity or pain when touched near the ears

  • Hearing loss or disorientation

  • Changes in behavior like hiding, irritability, or seeming "off"

If you’re noticing more than one of these signs, your cat may be dealing with more than just a little earwax buildup.

Types of Cat Ear Infections: Otitis Externa, Media, and Interna

Not all ear infections are created equal. Here's a breakdown:

Type of Otitis

Area Affected

Common Symptoms

Severity

Otitis Externa

Outer ear canal

Redness, itching, waxy discharge

Mild to moderate

Otitis Media

Middle ear

Head tilt, hearing loss, balance issues

Moderate to serious

Otitis Interna

Inner ear

Circling, nausea, neurological signs

Severe

In most cases, infections typically begin in the outer ear and can spread inward if left untreated. But when we intervene promptly, recovery is typically smooth.

What Causes Ear Infections in Cats?

A cat ear infection is never “just” an infection. It’s a symptom of something else going wrong. Some common culprits include:

1. Ear Mites

Microscopic pests that cause intense itching and dark, crumbly debris. Common in kittens and outdoor cats.

2. Bacterial or Fungal Infections

Bacterial and fungal infections often arise from a disrupted ear environment, whether from allergies, excess moisture, or poor hygiene.

3. Allergies

Food sensitivities or environmental triggers (like dust or pollen) can cause chronic inflammation in the ears.

4. Foreign Bodies or Trauma

A grass seed, a small insect, or even overzealous cleaning can trigger irritation and infection.

5. Underlying Conditions

Hormonal imbalances, tumors, or immunodeficiencies (like FIV) can predispose a cat to recurring infections.

Worried Your Cat Might Have an Ear Infection?

Worried Your Cat Might Have an Ear Infection?

Book an appointment with us today.

Book an appointment with us today.

Which Cats Are More Susceptible to Ear Infections?

Which Cats Are More Susceptible to Ear Infections?

Some cats are more prone to developing ear issues, whether due to their breed, environment, or underlying health conditions. Knowing this can help you stay one step ahead.

Here are the most commonly affected groups:

1. Scottish Folds and Other Folded-Ear Breeds

Their signature folded ears create a narrower canal, which can trap wax and moisture more easily, creating a perfect storm for bacteria or mites.

2. Persians and Other Long-Haired Cats

Thick fur around and inside the ears can trap dirt, allergens, and debris. Plus, Persians are prone to brachycephalic anatomy, which may affect airflow and self-cleaning mechanisms in the ear canal.

3. Outdoor and Stray Cats

Cats that roam outdoors or have access to gardens, parks, or rooftops are at a much higher risk of ear mites, injuries, and foreign bodies in the ear.

4. Kittens

Young cats, especially rescues or those without regular parasite control, are extremely vulnerable to ear mites. Left untreated, these infestations often lead to secondary infections.

5. Cats With Allergies

Whether food or environment-related, allergies can trigger chronic inflammation in the ears. Repeated flare-ups often result in recurrent infections.

6. Cats With Weakened Immune Systems

Felines with FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), FeLV (Feline Leukemia), or older senior cats may have reduced immune defenses, making them more vulnerable to recurring infections.

How We Diagnose a Cat Ear Infection at Noble Vet

Identifying the root cause of the infection is crucial for achieving long-term relief. When you bring your cat in, we perform a comprehensive exam that may include:

  • Visual inspection of the ear and surrounding tissue

  • Otoscope exam to view the ear canal and eardrum

  • Microscopic cytology from an ear swab to detect mites, yeast, or bacteria

  • Culture and sensitivity testing for chronic or stubborn cases

  • Imaging (X-ray or CT) if we suspect deeper ear involvement or a mass

Each step is gentle and tailored to your cat’s comfort, providing us with the information needed to treat effectively.

How to Treat a Cat Ear Infection

Treatment depends on what is causing the infection and how deep it has progressed. Here’s how we approach care at Noble Vet:

1. Ear Cleaning

Before any medication can work, the ear needs to be clean.

  • We may perform a professional ear flush under light sedation.

  • For at-home care, we’ll guide you through safe cleaning using vet-approved solutions.

  • Never use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. They can cause serious irritation.

2. Topical Drops

Depending on the cause, we prescribe:

  • Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops

  • Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and discomfort

3. Oral Medications

For deeper infections, or if topical treatment alone isn’t sufficient, your cat may need:

  • Systemic antibiotics

  • Antifungal pills

  • Pain relief, especially if the infection is severe

4. Parasitic Treatments

If ear mites are found, we’ll recommend specific products like selamectin or ivermectin, and discuss monthly parasite prevention.

How Long Does It Take for a Cat Ear Infection to Heal?

With proper treatment, most ear infections resolve within 7 to 21 days. But the exact timeline depends on the severity and underlying cause.

What’s important is sticking to the full treatment plan, even if symptoms seem to improve early. Incomplete treatment is a common reason for recurrence.

When to See a Vet Immediately

Some signs point to more serious inner ear involvement. Seek veterinary care without delay if your cat is:

  • Tilting her head or walking in circles

  • Showing signs of disorientation

  • Crying out in pain or acting aggressively

  • Bleeding from the ear

  • Experiencing a sudden loss of balance or coordination

Preventing Cat Ear Infections

Preventing cat ear infections for better health


The best treatment is often prevention. Here’s what you can do:

  • Check your cat’s ears weekly for redness, odor, or debris

  • Keep their environment clean and dry

  • Treat for parasites monthly, especially in the UAE climate

  • Address food or seasonal allergies with your vet

  • Schedule regular checkups

“Ear infections in cats are often overlooked until they cause severe discomfort. The key is early detection and tailored treatment, especially in breeds prone to chronic issues or cats rescued from the outdoors.”

- Dr. Soheyl Simaei

Final Thoughts

Your cat may not say much, but their body speaks in subtle ways. And their ears are often the first to sound the alarm. A cat ear infection, while common, deserves prompt and compassionate attention.

At Noble Vet, we’re here to help you decode those signs and offer fast, gentle care tailored to your cat’s needs. Whether it’s a routine ear check or treatment for a persistent infection, we’re just a call away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you treat a cat’s ear infection?

How do you treat a cat’s ear infection?

How do you treat a cat’s ear infection?

How do you treat a cat’s ear infection?

Can a cat’s ear infection heal on its own?

Can a cat’s ear infection heal on its own?

Can a cat’s ear infection heal on its own?

Can a cat’s ear infection heal on its own?

How do I tell if my cat’s ears are infected?

How do I tell if my cat’s ears are infected?

How do I tell if my cat’s ears are infected?

How do I tell if my cat’s ears are infected?

Are some cats more prone to ear infections than others?

Are some cats more prone to ear infections than others?

Are some cats more prone to ear infections than others?

Are some cats more prone to ear infections than others?

How can I prevent my cat from getting an ear infection again?

How can I prevent my cat from getting an ear infection again?

How can I prevent my cat from getting an ear infection again?

How can I prevent my cat from getting an ear infection again?

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