Cat's Constant Ear Scratching and Head Tilting: More Th

When we observe our feline friends scratching their ears or tilting their heads, we might find their adorable antics quite amusing and even laugh out loud. However, these behaviors are not just for show; they are actually the cat's way of dealing with an itchy ear canal, a symptom that requires attention.

There are numerous reasons why a cat might experience ear itching, and the methods for addressing these issues vary. Let's delve into this topic today to gain a better understanding.

I. Common Causes of Cats Scratching or Throwing Their Heads

1. Ear Mites: These tiny parasites thrive in warm, moist environments, often making their home in a cat's ears. When a cat is infested with ear mites, they suffer from severe itching and may exhibit black or brown discharge from their ears.

2. Malassezia Infection: This common lipophilic yeast can multiply in a cat's ear canal when the skin is damaged or the immune system is weakened, leading to itching and the production of greasy, brownish discharge with a foul smell.

3. Bacterial Otitis Externa: This condition can cause ear canal mucosal damage, resulting in itching.

4. Allergies: Cats can be allergic to certain foods, pollen, dust mites, or detergents, leading to itchy ears and skin.

5. Foreign Bodies or Injuries: Outdoor cats may have grass seeds, dust, or other foreign objects enter their ears, causing discomfort and prompting them to scratch.

II. How to Handle the Situation Properly

1. Inspect Your Cat's Ears: Look for signs of injury, hair loss, excessive earwax, redness, swelling, or an unpleasant odor.

2. Use an Elizabethan Collar: This will prevent your cat from scratching its ears further, which could lead to secondary injury or infection.

3. Treatments Based on the Cause:

Injuries: Clean the wound with iodine and keep it dry and clean. It should heal on its own after some time. If there is pus, apply some Yunnan Baiyao after cleaning.

Ear Mites: Use a pet ear cleaning solution like "Er Fen Fen (Pet Ear Care Solution)" to clean the ear canal. After applying the solution, massage the base of the ear for over a minute to soften the earwax. Let the cat shake out the solution and earwax, then clean the area with a cotton swab. Apply "Xin Er Ning (Bifonic Acid Soft Gel)" to inhibit ear mites, reduce itching, and prevent secondary otitis externa. Use "Di Pai (Pyriproxyfen Moxidectin Drops)" for deworming once a month to prevent ear mite recurrence.

Malassezia Infection: Clean the ear canal and use antifungal ear drops containing itraconazole, miconazole, or ketoconazole. Feed your cat "Shi Wei Bi (Vitamin B Complex Solution)" to boost their immune system and aid in skin and mucosal repair.

Bacterial Otitis Externa: Use antibacterial and antifungal ear drops after cleaning the ear canal with a pet ear wash or antibiotic solution. Apply "Er Di Ke (Fluoroquinolone Metronidazole Ear Drops)" once or twice a day. For severe infections, consult a veterinarian.

Foreign Bodies: Take your cat to a vet for an ear exam. The vet will use specialized tools to remove the foreign object, preventing damage to the ear canal mucosa.

By understanding the various causes of ear itching in cats and the appropriate treatments, you can ensure your furry friend stays comfortable and healthy.