Cat Ear Problems
Ear troubles can make your cat miserable and irritable. Infection of the outer ear, cankers, blood tumors (hematoma), parasites, and insect bites and stings are the more common ear ailments of cats.
CANKERS
An ear canker, or ulceration, may be caused by infection or Para-sites. It is characterized by an accumulation of foul smelling wax in scabs or crusts, and the cat shakes its head and paws at its ears, all of which aggravate the condition.
You can relieve the itching and discomfort by washing the canker with mild soap and water. Use absorbent cotton and wash off the scabs or crusts. Next, dip a cotton swab into mineral or sesame oil and gently swab the affected parts of the ear. Do not penetrate too far into the ear canal or you may damage the eardrum.
Apply the oil only tithe parts of the ear canal that you can see. After the oil has been applied, dust the ear with an antiseptic powder. If the canker persists, consult your veterinary surgeon.
HAEMATOMAS
Blood tumors, or hematomas, can lead to serious ear troubles if neglected. A hematoma usually forms between the skin and the ear cartilage, and often follows injury. The symptoms include pawing at the ears, shaking the head, a soft swelling inside or outside the ear, pain or sensitivity when touched, and heat in the affected parts. Their will actually feel hot. Hematomas cannot be adequately treated at home. They require surgical drainage. Take the cat to the vet.
EAR MITES
Many cats become infested with small, barely visible ear mites, which get into the outer ear canal. They can lead to serious ear trouble and should be treated by the vet.