Ear Dermatitis (inflammation on skin of ear) in Cats

Feline Ear Dermatitis

Dermatitis involving the ear is an inflammation of the pinna (external part of the ear lying outside of the head). There are a variety of causes of ear dermatitis, ranging from infections to parasites to trauma.

Causes of Ear Dermatitis in Cats

Infectious Causes

Immune Causes

Trauma

Systemic Causes

Miscellaneous Causes

Since there are so many different causes of ear dermatitis, diagnosis, treatment and affect on the animal will vary.

What to Watch For

Diagnosis of Ear Dermatitis in Cats

Baseline tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile and urinalysis, are usually within normal limits. Additional tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of the ear dermatitis.

Treatment of Ear Dermatitis in Cats

The treatment depends on the underlying disorder.

Home Care and Prevention

Follow all instructions given to you by your veterinarian. If your pet has a recurrence of signs, contact your veterinarian at once. The best way to prevent ear dermatitis is to remove any offending substances from the environment. Limit sun exposure and feed hypoallergenic diets when appropriate.