About your cat's ears
Your cat's hearing is excellent, especially for high-frequency sounds! Their ears are also key for communication. So, ear problems causing itching and pain can be really distressing for them.
A healthy cat's ear shouldn't smell bad, or look swollen, red, or feel tender. If you notice any of these signs, it could mean your cat is suffering from ear problems that cause pain and itching. Regularly checking your cat's ears can help you spot any issues early on.
Ear mites are a common cause of itchy ears, particularly in young cats, and can also lead to ear infections. These tiny parasites live in the ear canals and the skin just outside the ear. While the mites themselves are hard to see, you can often spot their presence by a black, coffee-ground-like discharge in the cat's ears. All cats can get ear mites, but they're more common in kittens.
If your cat is scratching its ears a lot, or you've noticed a dark discharge and suspect ear mites, please contact your vet. A quick diagnosis is important so your cat can get the right treatment as soon as possible, helping to relieve discomfort and prevent the infection or inflammation from spreading.
Your vet will examine your cat's ears to diagnose whether it's ear mites or another ear issue. Because mites are so small, a microscope is often needed to confirm their presence. Once a diagnosis is made, your vet can provide the appropriate treatment.
