A cat that scratches its ears, shakes its head or develops a strong ear odor may have an ear problem. Dark wax can occur with ear mites, but bacteria, yeast and other conditions can produce similar signs. Looking at discharge cannot reliably identify a safe medicine.
Common symptoms
Watch for head shaking, ear scratching, redness, brown or yellow discharge, odor, pain on touch and a swollen ear flap. A cat with a persistent head tilt, stumbling, unusual eye movements, marked pain or difficulty maintaining balance needs urgent veterinary attention because deeper ear disease may be involved.
Ear mites versus other causes
Ear mites are a common cause of inflammation in kittens and cats exposed to other affected pets. Secondary bacterial or yeast infection may also develop. Foreign material, polyps and skin conditions are other possibilities. VCA’s guide to ear infections in cats explains why ear-mite signs overlap with other conditions and why an ear examination matters.
Why not use over-the-counter drops?
Some ear products can damage hearing if the eardrum is ruptured. Your veterinarian may use an otoscope to check the ear canal and eardrum and examine a sample of material under a microscope. Do not insert cotton swabs deep into the canal, use human ear drops, vinegar, alcohol, peroxide or essential oils, or reuse a medication prescribed for a different animal.
What veterinary treatment may involve
Treatment depends on whether mites, bacteria, yeast or another problem is present. A veterinarian may prescribe a targeted antiparasitic or ear medication and a safe cleaning plan. Repeated infections may need investigation for underlying disease; follow-up matters even if the cat stops scratching. VCA’s inner-ear guidance describes balance changes and head tilt that can signal more serious illness.
Can a telehealth visit help?
A video call can help describe the symptoms and decide how quickly to seek care but cannot confirm the condition of the eardrum or identify infection under a microscope. Most suspected ear infections need an in-person examination. If a cat is also lethargic or not eating, see our cat lethargy guide and notify the clinic promptly.
Educational only. Ear medication should be prescribed for the individual cat after suitable evaluation.
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.