I'm kind of freaking out right now and hoping someone here can help. I've noticed something weird going on with my cat's ears. They've started looking a bit crusty around the edges and there's some redness, too. She doesn't seem to be in pain, but she's been scratching at them more often than usual. I tried cleaning them gently with a damp cloth, hoping it might help, but nothing's really changed. I can't tell if it's ear mites or an infection or something else entirely. I haven't introduced any new foods or changed her environment, so I can't figure out what could be causing this. I'm worried and not sure if I should wait it out or take her to the vet immediately. Could really use some advice from anyone who's been through something similar.
Thanks for reaching out about your cat's ears! It sounds like you’re noticing something unusual, and it's great that you're seeking guidance. Several issues could be affecting your cat's ears. Cats are prone to ear infections, which can be caused by bacteria, yeast, ear mites, or even allergies. If your cat is shaking their head, scratching at their ears, or if there's an unusual odor or discharge, these are common signs of an ear problem.
You can check your cat’s ears gently by lifting the flap and looking inside. Healthy ears are pale pink and free of debris and odor. If you see redness, swelling, black debris, or notice an unpleasant smell, it's a sign that something might be wrong.
At home, you can carefully clean the outer part of the ear with a damp cloth if there's any visible dirt. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, as this could cause more harm. Keep an eye on your cat for increased scratching or head shaking.
More serious symptoms to watch for include balance issues, constant head tilting, or loss of hearing, which could indicate a deeper problem requiring immediate care.
I suggest booking a video consult with a veterinarian on Dial A Vet. We can take a closer look and offer more specific advice to help your furry friend feel better as soon as possible!
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