Ear problems are fairly common in cats and can involve different parts of the ear:

The outer ear (the visible ear flap, or pinna).
The ear canal (external ear).
The middle and inner ear (deeper structures affecting balance and hearing).

Most feline ear problems involve the outer ear and ear canal, but more serious cases can extend deeper.

Common Conditions Affecting the Outer Ear

Wounds & Trauma: Scratches and bites from fights can cause cuts or abscesses (pus-filled swellings), especially on the ear flap.
Haematomas: A soft, swollen lump on the ear caused by bleeding under the skin—often from excessive scratching or head shaking.
Sun Damage (Solar Dermatitis): White or light-colored cats are especially vulnerable to sunburn, which can lead to sores or even skin cancer over time.
Mange (Notoedric or Sarcoptic): Caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and scabbing.
Harvest Mites (Chiggers): These tiny orange larvae can latch onto ears, face, and feet—particularly in outdoor cats—causing seasonal irritation.

Common Issues in the Ear Canal (Otitis Externa)

Ear Mites (Otodectes cynotis): Tiny parasites that can spread easily between cats, often causing dark discharge and intense itching.
Infections: Bacterial or yeast infections often follow trauma, mites, or foreign material in the ear.
Foreign Bodies: Occasionally, a grass seed or other object can get lodged in the ear canal, causing discomfort and inflammation.
Tumors or Polyps: Growths may develop in the ear canal, especially in older cats. These can be benign or, in some cases, cancerous.

Middle & Inner Ear Conditions

Deeper ear issues can affect your cat’s balance, coordination, or even eye function. Infections can spread between the outer, middle, and inner ear—especially if the eardrum is damaged.

Middle Ear Infections: More common in young cats and often result from bacteria traveling up the eustachian tube (linking the nose to the ear).
Polyps: Non-cancerous growths that form in the middle ear or eustachian tube, typically affecting younger adult cats.
Tumors: Rare but possible, especially in older cats.

Signs Your Cat Might Have an Ear Problem

Watch for the following symptoms:

Head shaking or tilting.
Keeping ear a bit low.
Scratching or pawing at ears.
Swelling or redness.
Pain or sensitivity when touched.
Visible wounds or crusting.
Bad odor from the ears.
Discharge (often dark or waxy).
Loss of balance or walking in circles.
Eye changes (like unequal pupil size or drooping eyelids).

What Causes Ear Problems in Cats?

The most common causes include:

Parasites like mites.
Infections (bacterial or fungal), usually secondary to a primary problem or event.
Trauma from fights or accidents.
Allergies, ears are part of the skin as an organ.
Foreign objects like grass seeds.
Sun exposure.
Polyps or tumors.

When to Call the Vet

If you notice any of the symptoms above or are concerned about your cat’s ears or general health, don’t delay—get in touch with your veterinary team. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and less discomfort for your pet.

Diagnosing Ear Problems

Your vet will perform a full physical exam and use an otoscope to look deep into your cat’s ears. Swabs must be taken to test for bacteria or yeast, and in more serious or chronic cases, your cat may need imaging such as X-rays, CT, or MRI scans. Fluid samples from the middle ear may also be tested.

Treatment Options

Treatment will depend on the cause and may include:

Parasite treatments (e.g., mite control).
Ear drops or oral medications like antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-inflammatories.
Ear cleaning is done by the vet or at home with specific products. Avoid the Amazon stuff.
Pain relief.
Surgical intervention, especially for tumors, polyps, or severe infections.
Removal of foreign objects.

Need More Advice?

If you have questions or suspect an ear problem, we’re here to help. Book an appointment with the veterinary team at Panacea Vets to ensure your cat gets the necessary care.