Help, I’m really worried about my cat, Luna. I've just noticed a strange bulge deep inside her ear, and I have no idea what it could be. It wasn't there last week, or at least I didn't notice it; she's been acting completely normal until today. She’s still eating and playing like usual, but I can’t stop feeling anxious about it. It doesn’t seem to bother her when I touch around the area, but the bulge feels quite firm, not soft like I might expect if it were just swelling. I’m not sure if it’s an infection, a cyst, or something else entirely. I haven’t had any issues with her ears in the past. Has anyone else had a similar experience with their furry friend? I just want to make sure Luna’s okay and figure out if this is something that requires an immediate vet visit or if there are steps I can take at home first. Any advice or shared experiences would be much appreciated!
Thanks for the question! A bulge deep in your cat's ear can be concerning and could stem from a few different causes. It's possible that your cat has an ear infection, which can cause swelling within the ear canal. Other possibilities include an ear polyp or even the presence of a foreign object that somehow got lodged inside.
At home, you can gently inspect the outer ear for any signs of redness, discharge, or odor, which are typical signs of infection. Make sure your cat is calm during this inspection, as agitation could cause them to scratch or shake their head, potentially worsening the issue.
To keep your cat comfortable until you can speak to a veterinarian, ensure they are in a quiet environment and discourage excessive scratching at the ear, as this could cause further irritation or damage.
Watch for signs like increased head shaking, pawing at the ear, loss of balance, or lack of appetite. These could indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
To properly diagnose and treat your cat’s ear problem, it's best to book a video consult with a veterinarian on Dial A Vet. They can help assess whether further intervention is needed, such as an in-person visit or ear cleaning, and guide you through the next steps.
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