Itchy Cat Ears? Common Cat Ear Problems

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Pumpkin Team
1 day ago
5 min read

Key Points

Itchy ears are a symptom, not a diagnosis. They can be related to a number of causes like allergies, parasites, and infections.
Veterinarians use an ear exam and cytology to find the cause and prescribe targeted treatment.
Ear cleaning at home is safe if done with veterinarian-approved ear cleaners and proper technique. Never insert cotton swabs into the ear canal.

If you’re a new cat parent and notice lots of ear-scratching or repeated head-shaking, it’s natural to be concerned. Itchy ears are common and can stem from several issues, from mites and allergies to infections, so you may see this behavior at some point.

Common doesn’t mean harmless, though: a vet visit can pinpoint — and treat — the real cause.

This guide explains what might be behind your cat’s discomfort, the signs to watch for, and when to call your veterinarian. With timely care, your cat can say goodbye to itchy ears (those velvet triangles!) and get back to feeling comfortable.

Why is my cat scratching their ears?

Cats may scratch their ears for several reasons, ranging from harmless to more serious health concerns. Common causes include ear mites, allergies, bacterial or fungal infections, and foreign objects in the ear canal.

Sometimes, excessive scratching can also indicate underlying skin conditions. If your cat is persistently scratching or seems distressed, monitor them closely and consult a veterinarian to address the issue before it worsens.

Signs your cat may have an ear problem

Striped cat cleaning its paw in a sunlit outdoor setting

Cats are experts at hiding pain, so it’s up to you to recognize the signs of an ear issue. Gently lift your cat’s ear flaps to check for redness, swelling, or debris in the outer ear.

Visual signs

Redness or swelling
Discharge from the ear canal
Scabs or crusting around the ears
Black or brown debris

Behavioral signs

Frequent scratching or pawing at the ears
Shaking head
Ear twitching or tilting their head to one side
Loss of balance or uncontrolled head tremors

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to inspect your cat’s ears and possibly visit a veterinarian.

Common causes of cat ear problems

Each of the different potential causes come with their own treatment options, so finding the cause of the symptom is key to solving it.

Ear mites

Ear mites are one of the most common cat ear problems, especially in kittens and outdoor cats. These tiny parasites live in the outer ear canal and cause intense itching and discomfort.

Cats with ear mites often exhibit scratching, head shaking, and the presence of black or coffee-ground-like debris in their ears. If left untreated, ear mites can pave the way for secondary yeast or bacterial ear infections (otitis externa), and in chronic cases, the infection may spread to the middle ear.

Ear infection (Otitis externa)

Otitis externa refers to inflammation of the outer ear and is a frequent issue in cats. This can occur due to bacterial or yeast infections, and is often triggered by underlying conditions such as excessive moisture, ear mites, or allergies. Symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, and an unpleasant odor.

Allergic reaction

Allergic reactions, often due to food, environmental allergens, or contact irritants, can lead to inflammation of the outer ear. Cats experiencing an allergic reaction may show redness, swelling, or excessive scratching. Managing the underlying allergy is critical for long-term ear health and can be as simple as feeding a hypoallergenic diet.

Foreign object in the ear

A foreign object, such as a grass seed or a small twig, can become lodged in a cat's ear canal and cause irritation, discomfort, or even pain. Signs of a foreign object where it shouldn’t be include head tilting, pawing at the ear, or sudden behavioral changes.

Immediate removal by a veterinarian is necessary to prevent further damage or infection. Depending how deep, your veterinarian may be able to extract it while your cat is awake or they may need to be put under anaesthetic.

Excess wax buildup

Some cats are prone to producing excessive ear wax, which can trap debris and create a breeding ground for bacteria or yeast. Over time, this wax buildup can result in irritation and potentially lead to otitis externa. Regular ear cleaning, as recommended by a veterinarian, can help prevent complications stemming from wax accumulation.

What's that black stuff in a cat’s ears?

Close-up of a brown Siamese cat with large ears and green eyes, gazing intently

Not all dark debris means mites. Coffee-ground-like specks often point to ear mites; smooth, brown residue is usually ear wax; thick, very dark discharge with a strong odor can suggest a yeast or bacterial infection.

Even if there are no mites, black stuff in your cat’s ears may signal allergies. If you’re unsure, have your veterinarian take a look.

How veterinarians diagnose cat ear problems

Veterinarians follow a thorough process to diagnose ear problems in cats and identify the root cause. First, they use an otoscope to examine the ear canal for redness, swelling, foreign objects, or signs of ear mites.

If needed, a swab is taken from the ear to analyze under a microscope (cytology), which helps detect yeast, bacteria, or mites. For recurring symptoms, allergy testing might be recommended, as these can lead to chronic inflammation and secondary infection.

Imaging techniques like CT scans or X-rays are reserved for severe cases involving suspected tumors or inner ear damage.

When to call the veterinarian

Some ear issues can resolve quickly with basic care and hygiene, but others require professional attention. You should contact your veterinarian if you notice:

Discharge, odor, or blood
Symptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 days
Loss of balance, appetite, or noticeable discomfort
Severe head tilting or extensive scabbing around the ears

5 easy ways to prevent cat ear problems

Calico cat grooming itself, paw on face, outdoors

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to your feline friend. Help your cat maintain healthy ears with these simple tips:

Use vet-recommended parasite prevention products monthly to prevent ear mites.
Perform a visual ear check weekly to spot any early signs of trouble.
Clean your cat’s ears only with veterinarian-approved products, and never use cotton swabs.
Keep your cat’s ears dry and free of debris to prevent infections.
Treat allergies promptly to reduce inflammation and stop scratching at the source.

By learning to identify and respond to common cat ear problems, you’re giving your kitty the comfort and care they deserve. If you’re worried about your cat’s ears or need guidance, schedule a veterinary visit to get expert advice.

Veterinary bills can feel intimidating. A Pumpkin Pet Insurance plan may reimburse up to 90% of eligible vet bills after the annual deductible, so the cost is less likely to delay a visit. Accident and illness coverage can help with eligible expenses for unplanned illnesses and injuries — from emergency procedures to treatment for minor ear infections — so your cat can get back to feeling comfortable.

FAQs

What are the signs of ear mites?

Common signs of ear mites include scratching ears, shaking head, dark “coffee-ground” debris, redness of the outer ear, and a musty odor.

Why is my cat’s ear twitching?

Cat ear twitching is a normal response to sounds, stimuli, or irritation, like dust or small insects. However, persistent or frequent twitching can indicate problems such as ear mites, infections, or allergies. Observing other symptoms, like head shaking or redness, helps determine if veterinary attention is needed. Not all twitching signals an issue.

How do I know if it’s an infection vs. an allergy?

An ear infection often presents with symptoms like foul odor, discharge, swelling, or intense scratching localized to the ear. Allergies, on the other hand, may cause generalized itchiness or redness, and affect other areas like the skin or paws. A veterinarian can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

Should I clean my cat’s ears at home?

You can clean your cat’s ears at home if they appear dirty, but only use vet-approved solutions and avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. Regular cleaning isn't necessary unless advised by a veterinarian to prevent irritation or harm.

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