Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is scratching fur off her ear and head. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Female | spayed | 14 years old | 9.6 lbs

My cat has scratched the fur off her ear and side of her head. Is there anything I can do for her?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2017

Poor Missy looks like her skin is quite irritated! She requires a visit to the vet to determine the source of her itchiness. She could have an infection in her ear (bacteria, yeast, or both), ear mites, or allergies (to something in the environment like pollen/dust or to food) that is causing the inflammation. Your vet can look down inside the ear and possibly take a swab to examine under the microscope, and prescribe the appropriate treatment for her. Placing an e-collar on her until your vet is able to see her will help decrease the self-trauma she is causing.

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2018

    This excessive scratching can be a sign of an ear infection, which can be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria. It could also be due to allergies, fleas, or ringworm. I'd give your vet a call to make an appointment for Vivian to be seen. The vet can diagnose what is causing her to scratch her ears excessively, and can treat her for it. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored