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Parasitic diseases in rabbits: the commonest threats and how to prevent them
Coccidiosis, encephalitozoonosis, ear mange and cheyletiellosis are the parasitic diseases pet rabbits meet most often, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. We explain how they are diagnosed in the laboratory, how they are treated, and which hygiene, quarantine and feeding rules keep infection at bay.
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How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Frost, ice and road salt leave a dog's pads irritated, cracked and sometimes frostbitten every winter. We explain how to pick a route and a protective wax before the walk, how to rinse and dry the paws properly once you are home, and which signs mean it is time to call the veterinary clinic.
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Horner’s syndrome in dogs and cats: signs, causes, diagnosis and treatment
A drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil and a visible third eyelid on one side add up to Horner's syndrome. It is not painful in itself and does not harm sight, but it often signals another, more serious condition underneath. We explain the causes, the diagnostic steps, the pharmacological tests and the treatment options.
Ear infections in cats: how to spot them, prevent them and treat them
What is an ear infection?
An ear infection in a cat, also known as otitis externa, involves inflammation and infection within the outer ear, which leaves the animal uncomfortable and in pain. The condition can have a variety of causes, including bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections, as well as allergies that irritate the lining of the ear. Inflammation of this kind can lead to excessive wax production, which blocks the ear canal and produces an unpleasant smell. Ear infections in cats can also stem from foreign bodies, such as bits of fluff or dirt, which irritate the delicate tissues further. Left untreated, an ear infection can lead to more serious health problems, including a middle ear infection, which is why early diagnosis and treatment matter so much.
How to spot an ear infection in your cat
Recognising an ear infection in a cat comes down to observing the clinical signs. Owners should look out for the following symptoms:
What causes ear infections in cats?
Ear infections in cats have a range of causes, and several factors may act alone or together to produce inflammation. Among the most common are infections, which may be bacterial or fungal. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas thrive in the warm, damp environment of the ear, particularly where the skin inside it has been damaged. Fungi, especially Malassezia, can also cause infection, above all in cats with a weakened immune system.
Another significant factor is parasites, including fleas and mites such as Otodectes cynotis, which cause intense itching and irritation and open the door to secondary infections. Allergies, both dietary and environmental (to pollen or dust, for example), also contribute to ear infections by inflaming the epithelial tissue of the outer ear. Anatomical differences, such as an unusually shaped ear flap or ear canal, can predispose a cat to ear problems too, since they restrict ventilation and allow wax to build up.
On top of that, cats kept in unhygienic conditions, where cleanliness is neglected, run a greater risk of ear infections. There are behavioural factors as well: scratching the ears excessively can cause injury and introduce bacteria into the ear, which again triggers inflammation.
How to prevent ear infections in cats
Preventing ear infections in cats calls for a systematic approach and steps aimed at keeping the ears healthy and heading off potential infections. The key is to check your cat’s ears regularly so that any worrying signs, such as excess wax, an unpleasant smell or irritation, are picked up early. Owners should keep the ears clean and wash them regularly, but carefully, so as not to damage the delicate tissues, and it is best to leave the job to a veterinarian.
Keeping the cat’s surroundings clean matters just as much, including regular cleaning of the places where it spends its time, so that allergens and micro-organisms do not accumulate. For cats prone to allergies, it is important to identify and avoid the substances that trigger a reaction, which can help prevent inflammation of the ears.
Using flea and worming treatments is essential too, in order to limit the risk of parasites that cause irritation. Regular veterinary check-ups, moreover, allow any health problems to be caught early and prevent infections from taking hold.
Diagnosing ear infections
Diagnosing an ear infection in a cat usually begins with a detailed history taken by the veterinarian. The owner should provide information about the symptoms, the cat’s medical history and any changes noticed in its behaviour, such as itchy ears, excess wax or an unpleasant smell. The vet then moves on to a physical examination, which involves a close look at the ears, an assessment of their appearance and an evaluation of any discharge. In many cases microbiological testing is also ordered, in which samples from the ear are analysed for bacteria, fungi or parasites. Imaging such as ultrasound is sometimes used as well, to assess the state of the inner ear in more complicated cases. Where inflammation is confirmed, the vet may prescribe appropriate treatment or refer the cat to a specialist, such as a veterinary ear specialist who deals with more complex ear conditions. Accurate diagnosis is essential if an ear infection is to be treated effectively and further complications avoided.
How are ear infections in cats treated?
If you suspect your cat has an ear infection, see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment may involve:
In summary
An ear infection in a cat is a serious problem, but one that can be recognised, prevented and treated successfully. Watching your cat’s behaviour closely and seeking veterinary help early can make a real difference to its comfort and keep the risk of further complications to a minimum. Keeping the ears clean, guarding against parasites and seeking medical help as soon as worrying signs appear are the key steps