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Why is my indoor cat scratching behind his ear until it bleeds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 9 months old | 10 lbs

hi, my cat has been scratching himself behind his left ear until he bleeds. he only started doing this about 6 or 7 months and each time it seems to get worse, and I don't think its fleas cause I don't have fleas. any help would be really helpful thanks ps my cat is a indoor only cat

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 8th, 2017

When cats frequently scratching their ears a lot, then this can be a sign of an ear infection. Ear infections can be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria in cats. I would have Garfield (love his name!) seen by a vet today since he's scratching so hard that he is causing himself to bleed. The vet can diagnose if he does have an ear infection, and can prescribe treatment for it. It's very important to have any ear problem examined and treated promptly because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 21st, 2018

    Poor Nano! The blood behind his ear could be from his scratching at his ear, injuring it. Scratching at the ear can be a sign of an ear infection, which could be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria. I would take him into the vet. The vet can examine his ear, diagnose if he does have an ear infection, what's causing, and can prescribe treatment for it. I would give him vet a call today. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 30th, 2018

    I can see the bleeding behind OJ’s ears you are referring to. This is likely due to chronic scratching that can be caused by a bacterial or mite infection. Ear mites are relatively common in cats, and regular use of antiparasitic products such as Advantage, Frontline, and products specifically labeled for ear mites can treat them. Unfortunately, because of the chronic scratching OJ may have a secondary bacterial infection which requires antibiotics. A physical exam and the medication required are relatively inexpensive and would help make OJ more comfortable.

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