Updated October 14, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Ear problems in cats are often caused by ear mites, especially in kittens and outdoor cats, but can also be due to allergies, polyps, or yeast and bacterial infections. Signs include head shaking, scratching, dark debris, and odor. A head tilt or loss of balance can mean the middle or inner ear is involved. A vet should look in the ear before any treatment.
Signs to watch
- Head shaking or scratching at ears
- Dark, crumbly, coffee-ground debris (typical of mites)
- Redness, odor, or discharge
- Head tilt or loss of balance
- Swelling of the ear flap
Common causes
- Ear mites
- Allergies
- Nasopharyngeal polyps in young cats
- Yeast or bacterial infections
- Foreign bodies
Go to a vet or emergency clinic right away if
- Head tilt, circling, or falling
- Rapid eye movements
- Severe pain or facial swelling
Safe home care while you arrange a visit
- Keep your cat from scratching the ears raw
- Don’t clean deep into the ear before a vet exam
What to avoid
- Cotton swabs in the ear canal
- Dog ear products, which may contain ingredients unsafe for cats
- Hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or oils
- Tea tree oil
Can you ask a vet online about this?
Online vet services can be helpful for deciding how urgent a problem is, getting general advice, and follow-up questions. But they have limits:
- A vet can’t examine your cat, listen to the heart and lungs, or run tests over video
- In many US states, a vet must have examined your cat in person before prescribing medication. Rules vary by state and are changing
- For any emergency sign listed above, go directly to an emergency clinic rather than waiting for an online reply
Have your cat’s age, weight, medications, and photos or video of the problem ready to make any consultation more useful.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Otitis externa in cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Ear mites
- Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC): Ear mites
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.