My cat tears behind its ears until they bleed what should I do? - briefly
If your cat is tearing at its ears until they bleed, it could be due to allergies, ear mites, or an infection. Here are some steps you can take:
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Consult a Veterinarian: The first step should always be to consult with a veterinarian. They can provide a professional diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.
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Check for Ear Mites: Ear mites are a common cause of excessive ear scratching. Look inside your cat's ears for signs of mites or debris.
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Clean the Ears Gently: Use a veterinarian-approved cleaner to gently clean your cat’s ears. Be cautious not to push debris further into the ear canal.
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Avoid Self-Treatment: Do not attempt to treat your cat with over-the-counter medications without consulting a vet, as some treatments can be harmful if not used correctly.
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Monitor for Improvement: Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and the condition of its ears. If there is no improvement within a few days, contact your vet again.
My cat tears behind its ears until they bleed what should I do? - in detail
If you notice that your cat is tearing at its ears until they bleed, it's important to address this issue promptly and with care. Ear scratching and bleeding can be indicative of several underlying issues, ranging from minor irritants to serious infections or parasites. Here are detailed steps you should take:
First, understand that cats are prone to ear problems due to their vertical ear shape, which can trap debris and moisture. The most common causes of excessive ear scratching include ear mites, ear infections (otitis), allergies, foreign bodies, or even tumors.
To determine the cause, observe your cat's behavior closely:
- Does it shake its head frequently?
- Is there a foul odor coming from the ears?
- Are the ears red, swollen, or warm to touch?
- Is there any discharge from the ears besides blood?
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult your veterinarian immediately. They can perform a thorough examination and possibly take a sample of the ear discharge for laboratory analysis.
In the meantime, avoid attempting to clean or treat the ears yourself unless directed by your vet. Using cotton swabs or other objects can push debris further into the ear canal or cause injury. If your cat allows, you can gently wipe the visible part of the ear with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or blood, but do not insert anything into the ear canal.
Your veterinarian may prescribe medication based on the diagnosis:
- For ear mites, a topical treatment is usually effective.
- If an infection is present, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs might be necessary.
- Allergies can be managed with antihistamines or immunotherapy.
- In rare cases, surgery may be required to remove tumors or other growths.
It's also important to maintain good ear hygiene for your cat:
- Regularly check your cat's ears for any signs of irritation or infection.
- If your cat has long hair, keep the hair around its ears trimmed to prevent matting and debris buildup.
- Use an appropriate ear cleaner recommended by your vet to gently clean the outer part of the ear.
By taking these steps, you can help alleviate your cat's discomfort and address the underlying cause of the bleeding ears effectively. Always consult a veterinary professional for a precise diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your cat's needs.