Ear Discharge in Cats
Key takeaways
Ear discharge in cats describes build up of grit and debris in the ear canal, as well as drainage of bodily fluids including blood, pus, or lymphatic fluid.
- Small amounts of earwax are normal and protect the inner ear from dirt and debris
- Healthy discharge is waxy, light brown or yellowish, and minimal
- Dark brown, black, orange, green, or cream-colored discharge may suggest an underlying condition
- Cats need veterinary care if ear discharge develops rapidly, is abnormal in color or consistency, or is accompanied by ear scratching, head shaking, a foul smell, red ears, head tilt, and face rubbing
- Infections, ear mites, polyps, foreign bodies, allergies, drug reactions, congenital defects, and immune-mediated disorders can cause ear discharge
- Diagnostics may include physical exam, bloodwork, and imaging
- Ear cleaning, medications, diet changes, and polyp or tumor surgery are possible treatments
- Most ear discharge can be treated successfully with a good prognosis
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A closer look: Ear Discharge in Cats
Ear discharge is a very common symptom in cats. A small amount of ear discharge is normal in cats, but ear discharge combined with signs of discomfort (scratching at ears, holding ears back, shaking head, head tilt), red ear canals, excessive ear discharge, foul-smelling ear discharge or a change in ear discharge require veterinary attention. Many conditions causing ear discharge can cause significant pain and discomfort.
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Possible causes
Risk factors
Ear discharge can vary in color, odor, and consistency. Normal waxy discharge ranges in color from yellow to light brown. Darker colors may be indications of a problem, such as a bacterial or yeast infection, or ear mites. Green or creamy yellow discharge indicates the presence of pus, and is a sign of infection. Coffee-ground consistency may indicate an ear mite infestation. The amount of discharge present varies depending on the underlying condition.
Testing and diagnosis
Diagnostics begin with a thorough physical exam, with in-depth examination of the ear canals. This requires special instruments to view the entire ear canal; sedation or full general anesthesia may be required in order to complete this. Typically a swab of the discharge is examined under a microscope. Ear mites, bacteria, and fungus can be identified this way.
Biopsy may be required in some cases. In cases where bacterial infection is suspected, the culture and sensitivity testing may be performed to select the right antibacterial medication.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and may include:
- Ear cleaning
- Medicated ear drops (antibacterial/antifungal)
- Other medications (antiparasitics, anti-inflammatories, immunotherapy)
- Surgery (polyps/tumors)
- Sedation/GA to remove foreign body
- Diet changes (food allergies)
- Pain management
Similar symptoms
Ear discharge is self-evident and not likely to be confused with other symptoms. Pet parents may identify healthy or normal discharge as a symptom when it is not.
