My cat's holding one ear down and keeps shaking her head, should I call Dial A Vet?

Yesterday afternoon, I noticed that my cat started holding one ear down and she's been shaking her head frequently since then. She doesn't usually act like this, and I'm concerned that something might be bothering her. Could this be an ear infection or something stuck in her ear? Should I call Dial A Vet, or can I monitor it a bit longer to see if it improves on its own?

Answer

It sounds like your cat is experiencing discomfort in one ear, possibly due to an ear infection or a foreign object. Prompt attention can help address the issue swiftly.

  • Observe if your cat keeps her head tilted or continues to shake her head.
  • Check for any unpleasant odor, discharge, or redness in the ear.
  • Consider contacting a vet if the symptoms persist or worsen.

Cats commonly shake their heads or hold an ear down if they have an ear problem such as an infection, mites, or a foreign body. These signs indicate discomfort, and it's important to monitor for any further symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge from the ear. While some mild issues may resolve on their own, others might require veterinary intervention. To ensure the best care for your cat, contacting a vet sooner rather than later is often advisable.

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 are common signs of an ear infection in cats?

    Common signs include shaking the head, scratching at the ears, unpleasant odor, discharge, and redness or swelling of the ear canal.

  • Can ear problems in cats resolve without treatment?

    Some minor issues might improve on their own, but many ear problems require veterinary care to treat underlying causes effectively.

  • How soon should I contact a vet if my cat's symptoms persist?

    If your cat's symptoms continue for more than a day or if they seem to worsen, contacting a vet promptly is recommended to prevent complications.

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