Otitis in Cats: What It Is, Symptoms and Treatment

Welcome to Waggy's blog! Today we're going to talk about an important topic for cat lovers: otitis. If you've ever noticed your feline scratching his ears or shaking his head frequently, he may be suffering from this annoying condition. In this article, we'll explain what otitis is, how to recognize it, and what you can do to help your kitty feel better. Don't miss out!

What is otitis in cats?

Otitis in cats is an inflammation or infection of the ear, which can be very bothersome for them. It usually causes itching, redness and an uncomfortable sensation that makes the cat scratch or shake its head frequently. This condition can be caused by several factors. If left untreated, it can worsen and cause pain or hearing loss. Therefore, it is important to be alert to the symptoms and take your cat to the vet if you notice anything out of the ordinary in its ears.

There are three main types of otitis in cats, depending on the part of the ear affected:

• Otitis Externa: This is the most common type and affects the external part of the ear, that is, the ear canal and the auricle. It is usually caused by mites, bacterial infections, fungi or even foreign bodies in the ear.
• Otitis Media: This occurs when the infection spreads to the middle ear, just behind the eardrum. This often develops as a complication of untreated otitis externa. It can affect the cat's balance and cause more pain.
• Internal Otitis: This is the most serious, as it affects the internal structures of the ear that are related to balance and hearing, and requires urgent veterinary attention.

Causes of otitis in cats

Otitis in cats can be caused by a variety of reasons. Here Waggy's will explain some of the most common ones:

• Ear mites: These are microscopic parasites that live in the ear canal of cats and are one of the most common causes of otitis. These tiny invaders feed on earwax and oils from the skin, causing irritation, intense itching, and a buildup of dark wax. Mites are usually more common in younger cats or those that spend time outdoors.

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• Bacterial and fungal infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can develop when the ear is moist or damaged, creating an ideal environment for these microorganisms to grow. Bacteria and fungi can appear after an untreated infection or due to the buildup of earwax and debris.
• Allergies: Cats can develop otitis due to food or environmental allergies (such as pollen, dust mites, or cleaning products). Allergies can cause inflammation in the ears, leading to secondary infections.
• Foreign bodies: Sometimes small objects such as seeds, sand or insects can get into a cat's ear, causing irritation and inflammation. This can cause the cat to scratch more than usual, which in turn can lead to an infection.
• Excessive moisture: Moisture in the ears, whether from bathing or being in a humid environment, can upset the ear's natural balance and promote the growth of bacteria and fungi. This is more common in cats that are not used to getting wet frequently.
• Tumors or polyps: Although less common, cats can develop abnormal growths inside the ear canal, such as tumors or polyps. These can block the canal and lead to inflammation or infection, contributing to otitis.

How do I know if my cat has otitis? Symptoms

To know if your cat has otitis, it is important to look out for the following common symptoms:

• If your cat scratches its ears insistently or more frequently than usual, it may be a sign that something is not right.
• Cats with otitis often shake their heads to try to relieve discomfort or itching in their ears.
• In more delicate cases, there are changes in the normal posture of the head and they tend to turn it to the side (head tilted) to relieve the discomfort.
• If you notice that the inside of your ears is red, swollen or irritated, it could be a sign of an infection.
• Otitis often causes a buildup of secretions in the ear, which can produce an unpleasant odor.
• If you notice dark brown, black discharge or excessive earwax, this may indicate the presence of mites or an infection.
• If your cat whines, runs away, or acts uncomfortable when you touch his ears, he may be experiencing pain from the inflammation.
• In more severe cases, otitis media can affect the inner ear, causing balance problems or uncoordinated movements.

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How is otitis diagnosed in cats?

The diagnosis of otitis in cats is made by the veterinarian through a physical examination and a detailed examination of the ear canal with an otoscope, an instrument that allows the veterinarian to observe the inside of the ear for signs of inflammation, redness, secretions or foreign bodies. In addition, the veterinarian may ask about the symptoms you have noticed and your cat's medical history.

To determine the exact cause of otitis, it is common to take samples of ear secretions to be analyzed under a microscope. This allows the presence of mites, bacteria or fungi to be identified. In more complex cases, cultures or even X-rays may be performed if it is suspected that the infection has affected the middle or inner ear.

How to cure otitis in cats? Treatment

Treatment for otitis in cats depends on the cause. In cases of bacterial or fungal infections, the vet may prescribe ear drops with specific antibiotics or antifungals to eliminate the infection. If mites are detected, antiparasitic products are used to eliminate them. In addition, it is common to clean the cat's ears regularly with solutions recommended by the vet to remove excess wax and secretions.

In more complex situations, such as allergies or the presence of tumors or polyps, treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove abnormal growths. It is essential to follow the prescribed treatment and the veterinarian's recommendations to ensure a full recovery and prevent future recurrences of otitis.

How long does otitis last in cats?

The duration of otitis in cats varies depending on the cause and how quickly treatment is started. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, mild otitis may improve within one to two weeks . However, in more severe or chronic cases, such as persistent or allergy-related infections, treatment may last several weeks or even require ongoing management to prevent relapse.

How to clean a cat's ear with otitis?

Before beginning any cleaning, make sure your vet has correctly diagnosed the cause of the otitis and recommended appropriate treatment.

• Use a recommended cleaning solution: Use a cat-specific ear cleaner that your vet has recommended. Avoid using homemade products or non-recommended solutions, as they can make the situation worse.
• Apply the solution: Carefully apply a few drops of the solution to the affected ear following the directions on the product. Be careful not to insert the applicator too deep into the ear canal.
• Massage the ear: With the cat's ear pointing down, gently massage the base of the ear to help dissolve wax and discharge.
• Wipe away excess: Use a cotton ball or gauze to wipe away any excess solution and secretions that have built up on the outside of the ear. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push wax further in.
• Follow the treatment: Complete the treatment as directed by your veterinarian and do not skip any doses of medication if it has been prescribed.

It is important to be gentle and patient during the process so as not to cause further discomfort to the cat. If you have any concerns or the cat shows signs of pain, consult your veterinarian again.

Can otitis in cats be prevented?

Yes, ear infections in cats can be prevented with some basic care. Maintaining good ear hygiene by regularly cleaning their ears with products recommended by your vet helps prevent the buildup of wax and debris. It's also important to check their ears frequently to detect any early signs of infection. Avoiding prolonged exposure to moisture and promptly treating problems such as mites or allergies also reduces the risk of them developing ear infections.

Can feline otitis media be transmitted to humans?

No, otitis in cats is not contagious to humans. Otitis is a condition that specifically affects the ears of cats and is usually caused by internal factors such as infections, mites or allergies. However, it is important to maintain good hygiene and basic precautions when treating a cat with otitis to avoid the spread of possible infections or parasites that can affect other animals.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Ear infections in cats can be an uncomfortable condition, but with early detection and proper treatment, your feline can quickly get back to feeling better. Remember to maintain good ear hygiene and keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort. If you have any concerns, it's always best to consult your veterinarian. We hope you've found this information useful. Thanks for reading Waggy's blog and we look forward to seeing you soon for more tips and updates for your beloved kitty's well-being!