My 14-year-old cat had his ears cleaned weeks ago, but now he's shaking his head and scratching. Should I be worried?

A few weeks ago, my 14-year-old cat had his ears cleaned, and everything seemed fine at first. Lately, though, he’s been shaking his head a lot and scratching at his ears quite often. Could this be a sign of an infection or some kind of irritation from the cleaning? Should I be concerned about these symptoms?

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Answer

It sounds like your cat may be experiencing some discomfort or irritation in his ears following the recent cleaning. These symptoms could potentially indicate an infection or an allergic reaction.

  • Increased head shaking and ear scratching can be signs of discomfort.
  • An infection or irritation from ear cleaning could be a possibility.
  • Monitoring your cat’s symptoms closely is important to address any underlying issues.

When a cat frequently shakes its head or scratches its ears, it can indeed indicate irritation or an infection. This might stem from residual moisture in the ears after cleaning, which can sometimes lead to bacterial or yeast growth. Additionally, if the ear cleaning was performed with a new product, an allergic reaction could also be a possibility. It's important to observe your cat for any additional symptoms, such as redness, discharge, or a foul smell, which may provide further clues.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if my cat seems uncomfortable after an ear cleaning?

    Keep an eye on any new symptoms and ensure your cat is not in distress. It may help to gently clean any visible buildup from the outer ear with a cotton ball. However, if discomfort persists, booking a consultation with a vet is advisable.

  • How can I tell if my cat has an ear infection?

    Look for signs such as frequent head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, or a discharge coming from the ear. A foul smell can also be an indicator of infection. A vet can provide a definite diagnosis.

  • Can an ear infection in a cat be treated at home?

    While some over-the-counter solutions exist, it is generally best to have a vet examine your cat to determine the exact cause of the symptoms and prescribe appropriate treatment. Home treatment without a vet's input can sometimes worsen the issue.

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Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

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