Ear Infection

An Ear Infection, commonly described as inflammation of a cat’s outer ear canal, usually occurs when foreign matter gets into the ear and the cat is not able to thoroughly or properly remove it. However, it is usually caused by yeast and bacteria inside of the ear and often some cats with allergies can lead to Ear Infections.

• It is most common the older a cat gets, but it is not exclusive to elders
• Ear Infections are much more common in the outer ear canal but the more it progresses, the deeper the infection can go
• Sick or diseased cats are more likely to contract Ear Infections

Mild Ear Infections are often nothing to worry about, and can be cleared with cleaning of the bacteria in the ear (whatever this may be) or addressing any other causes to the infection. The most common signs of a minor Ear Infection are, head shaking, the patient scratching their ears and minor discharge that is usually caused by build up of yeast or other bacteria.

• Clean the infected ear: With usual ear infections involving build up within the ears it should be cleared with a damp piece of moss and if needed, direct removal of the build up may be required.
• Alter treatment to fit the cause if needed: With allergy based ear infections, it should be taken into account the cat’s allergy before treatment begins, it is best to treat the flare up in the allergic reactions before treatment of the inflammation can begin.
• Treat with anti-inflammatories and follow up: If the pain persists, anti-inflammatory herbs are highly recommended for the treatment of the cat. Daily checkups are also highly recommended.
• Application of herbs: Herbs to loosen and draw out build up are also recommended for more stubborn build ups

• Chronic or Recurring ear infections are unlikely but may be expected
• Long term pain is not expected
• Complications are not expected

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A moderate ear infection is usually characterized similarly to Mild infections, however, the infection usually has a yeasty odor (relative to the cause) and discharge or pus can be noticed from the ear. In moderate cases, head shaking and ear scratching are much more frequent and the ear is more sensitive.

As per mild case instructions

• Chronic or Recurring ear infections may be expected
• Long term pain is not likely

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While Mild and Moderate Ear Infections are easy to care for and aren’t usually dangerous, Severe cases tend to have more worry to them, as the inflammation of a Severe infection is characterised before travelling deeper into the ear, usually the middle ear or inner ear, in which it is more likely for the infection to fester and cause deafness at work and severe pain at best. This may occur with chronic Ear Infections.

As per Mild case instructions with a thorough cleansing of the infected ear/s

• Recurring or Chronic infections are expected
• Residual pain is guaranteed
• Complications can be expected
• Hearing Loss is possible
• Deafness is possible

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