Why is my feral cat's ear bent downward, and why does he scream whenever he shakes his head? Could something serious be wrong?

I recently noticed that my feral cat's ear is bent downward, and it's got me a bit worried. Whenever he shakes his head, he lets out a loud scream, which is really alarming to hear. Could there be something seriously wrong with his ear, and should I be considering taking him in for a closer look?

Answer

It sounds like your feral cat may be experiencing pain or discomfort related to his ear, especially if he screams when shaking his head. A bent ear can sometimes indicate an underlying issue such as an infection or injury.

  • Head shaking and vocalization may indicate pain
  • Bent ear could be a sign of infection or injury
  • A vet visit can help diagnose and alleviate the problem

When a cat's ear is bent or causing pain, it could be due to issues like ear infections, mites, or even an aural hematoma, which is a collection of blood within the ear flap. Each of these conditions can be painful and might require different treatments. It's important to have a veterinarian examine your cat to determine the underlying cause and provide the appropriate care. Cats in distress may try to hide their pain, so the fact that your cat is making his discomfort known is a sign that he needs attention.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

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 could cause a cat's ear to bend or droop?

    A bent or drooping ear in a cat could be due to infections, injuries, mites, or aural hematomas. These require veterinary evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

  • Why is my cat screaming when shaking his head?

    Screaming when shaking his head may indicate severe discomfort or pain, possibly from an ear infection or injury. It's advisable to have a vet assess the situation.

  • Can I wait and see if the symptoms improve?

    It's important not to delay seeking veterinary care as ear issues can lead to more serious complications if untreated. Early intervention can help your cat feel better faster and prevent escalated problems.

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