Learn more about ear infections in cats

Just like in humans, ear infections in cats can be painful. They’re often caused by germs like bacteria and yeasts. Common triggers include ear mites and allergies.

Ear infections are less common in cats than dogs, but when they have one, it can be for different reasons: 

• wax building up and incorrect ear cleaning 

• ear mites 

• excessive growth of bacteria, yeast or both 

• allergies (fleas, pollen, food, etc) 

• irritants in the environment 

• foreign bodies into ear canal 

• polyps or tumours into the ear canal 

• immuno-system diseases (FELV, FIV) 

• autoimmune diseases 

• rupture of the ear drum 

A simple outer ear infection can quickly spread to the middle ear and onto your cat's inner ear, which is why it is essential to seek treatment for your cat's ear infection as soon as symptoms arise. If left untreated, ear infections in cats can result in hearing loss.



Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published March 2025 | Review date March 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet