Section: Parasitic Diseases

Why Is My Cat Scratching Its Ears?

A cat scratching its ears may have ear mites, infection, allergies, wounds, or debris in the ear canal. Dark coffee-ground debris, odor, head shaking, head tilt, or pain should be checked by a veterinarian. Do not use dog ear medication in a cat.

What symptoms or causes should I watch for?

  • Ear mites: Mites can cause intense itch, dark debris, and spread between cats.
  • Ear infection: Yeast or bacteria can cause odor, redness, pain, and discharge.
  • Allergy: Itchy skin disease can include the ears and face.
  • Scratching wounds: Sharp claws can create sores around the ear and neck.
  • Foreign material: Debris or plant material can irritate the canal.

What can I safely do at home right now?

  • Look without probing: Check for odor, redness, swelling, wounds, or dark debris.
  • Avoid cotton swabs deep in the ear: Pushing into the canal can worsen pain or damage.
  • Do not use dog products: Some dog ear or parasite products are unsafe for cats.
  • Separate contagious cases: Ask your vet if other cats need mite evaluation.
  • Schedule an exam: The ear canal and eardrum should be checked before treatment.

When is this an emergency?

Go to an emergency veterinary clinic now if you notice:

  • Head tilt, loss of balance, or abnormal eye movement.
  • Severe pain, crying, swelling, blood, or pus.
  • Bad odor, dark debris, or repeated head shaking.
  • Facial swelling, wounds from scratching, or lethargy.
  • A kitten, senior cat, or cat exposed to unknown topical products.

What will my veterinarian check?

Your veterinarian may examine the ear canal, look at debris under a microscope, check for mites, yeast, bacteria, wounds, and eardrum concerns.

How can I reduce the risk next time?

Use cat-safe parasite prevention when recommended and seek care before scratching creates wounds.

Related veterinary guides

References

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, does not establish a vet-client-patient relationship, and should not replace an in-person evaluation by a licensed veterinarian.