Cat Ear Infection: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care

Ear infections in cats are less common than in dogs, but when they do occur, they can cause significant discomfort and irritation. If left untreated, they may worsen and lead to more serious complications.

Because cats tend to hide signs of discomfort, it’s important to recognize early symptoms and act quickly.

Common Causes of Ear Infections in Cats

Ear infections in cats are usually caused by inflammation or an imbalance in the ear environment. Common causes include:

• Ear mites (a very common cause in cats)
• Bacterial infections
• Yeast infections
• Allergies
• Foreign material in the ear
• Wax buildup
• Underlying skin conditions

In many cases, more than one factor may be contributing to the infection.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Certain signs indicate your cat may have an ear infection and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

You should seek care if your cat:

• Is scratching at their ears frequently
• Is shaking their head
• Has redness or swelling in the ear
• Has discharge (dark, waxy, or foul-smelling)
• Shows signs of pain when the ear is touched
• Has a strong odor coming from the ears
• Is tilting their head or losing balance

Ear infections can worsen over time and may affect deeper structures if untreated.

How We Diagnose Ear Infections in Cats

At Nexus Veterinary Urgent Care, we evaluate ear infections by identifying the underlying cause and severity.

Diagnostics may include:

• Thorough ear examination
• Ear cytology to check for bacteria, yeast, or mites
• Evaluation of ear debris and inflammation
• Additional testing depending on severity or recurrence

Our goal is to determine the cause and provide targeted treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your cat’s ear infection.

Common treatments may include:

• Ear medications (antibiotic, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory)
• Treatment for ear mites
• Cleaning of the ear canal
• Management of underlying allergies or skin conditions
• Pain relief if needed

Proper treatment is important to fully resolve the infection and prevent recurrence.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

We provide same-day urgent care to help your pet get the care they need as soon as possible in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk. Visit us at 1124 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or call us at 757-974-8111.