Ear Discharge in Cats

Feline Ear Discharge

Ear problems are one of the most common ailments afflicting cats. Whether due to infection, trauma, parasites or other diseases, ears can be trouble. Most often, the first signs of trouble is the presence of discharge from the ear.

Sometimes, mild discharge is normal. Some cats tend to produce more wax than others. Keeping the ears clean helps prevent problems. For other cats, ear discharge is often a sign of trouble – most often the dreaded ear infection or ear mite.

Cats with ear problems usually start scratching when the trouble begins. The trauma of scratching causes swelling and discharge within the ear canal. The ears may then develop a secondary infection with either bacteria or yeast. Diseases that suppress the immune system and immune skin diseases can also lead to ear problems.

What To Watch For

Diagnosis of Ear Discharge in Cats

Treatment of Ear Discharge in Cats

Home Care and Prevention

Optimal treatment requires a combination of home and professional veterinary care. Your veterinarian may have you clean your cat’s ears as a preventative or as part of therapy for an ongoing problem. It is important not to use cotton swabs in an attempt to clean deep in the ear canal as this is likely to pack debris into the ear canal and against the eardrum.

Give all medication as directed, and observe your pet closely for recurrence of ear disease. Call your vet promptly is you notice any signs of recurrence. Ear disease is much more easily treated when still early in the disease.