Due to a complex ear anatomy,
ear problems in cats are of frequent occurrence. Read to know more about
ear infections and diseases in cats.
Ear Infections in Cats
Unlike the human ear, cats have
longer ear canals that move downward and then inward inside the ears.
This complex anatomical structure makes ear-cleaning very difficult.
Thus, cats are more likely to breed infectious microorganisms inside the
ears that give birth to various ear infections and diseases. Sometimes,
such problems may take chronic form by perforating ear drums and
traveling to the brain. So, proper hygiene and requisite medical
therapies are necessary to get rid of ear infections. In these lines, we
have detailed about the various symptoms, causes and remedies of ear
infections in cats.
Symptoms
More than often, your cat will display various signs that indicate an
ear problem. Keep an open eye to the following symptoms
- Constant rubbing or pawing of ears and head
- Vigorous shaking of the head
- Tilting the head to one side
- Foul smell near the ears
- Inflammation of the ear canal
- Discharge from the ears
- Irritable behavior or depression
Causes
Numerous predisposing factors may contribute to an infected ear in your
cat. Understand what causes this problem, by going through the following
lines
- Allergic reactions to certain food or inhaling certain allergens
- Presence of parasites like ear mites (Otodectes cynotis)
- Free-living organisms like yeast and bacteria in the body
- Presence of tumors inside the ear (like carcinomas and melanomas)
- Foreign bodies like plant awns inside the ear
- Some ear infections are congenital and hereditarily passed
Treatment
Depending on the causal factors, treatments may vary. Check out these
remedies that can help in reducing various ear problems in cats.
- Make sure to regularly clean your cat's ear with a good ear
cleaning solution to cure ear infection and prevent recurrence.
- Certain antibiotics and antifungals can be administered for
treating bacterial and yeast infections in ears.
- Corticosteroids are also prescribed, that are either applied
topically, or given orally or through injections.
- Hormonal replacement or hyposensitization is used for treating
ear infections due to hormonal imbalance.
- Various medicated ear drops are available to get rid of ear
mites. Ask your vet for a suitable product.
As aforesaid, hygiene is the most
important factor for preventing ear infections in your pet. Do a routine
check of your cat's ears and carefully remove accumulated waste and
debris from the ears. In case you notice any signs of ear infections,
immediately notify your veterinarian.
