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What's causing bloody patches on my cat's head, ear, and eye?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Scottish Fold | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old

Hi! My cat has a few bloody patches on her head, by her ear and beside her eye. I'm quite concerned about what it might be.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 7th, 2017

Hello, sorry to hear about Emma. It looks like she may be scratching her head and ears because she is itchy. This scratching may be due to allergies, an ear infection (she could also be shaking her head), or a skin parasite. With allergies, you may also note, but not necessarily, pink skin, hair loss, tiny bumps, hives, and constant licking/scratching. All of these can be medically managed. Emma may require a few diagnostics to rule out different causes for this which may include a skin scrape, cytology, and fungal culture. Other diagnostics may include an ear swab incase your veterinarian is suspicious of an ear infection. Monitor for a head tilt, droopy lower eye lid, different size pupils, and a raised third eye lid as all of these may be more consistent with an ear infection. The best way to diagnosed and treat these conditions is by visiting your veterinarian to have some tests performed. Your veterinarian will also be able to prescribe any medications that may be necessary. Hope this helps and best of luck!!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Steve Popish, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello friend. Looks like Emma definitely has some form of skin disease. If she goes outside, I would be suspicious of a cat scratch or wound caused by another cat. If she is strictly indoors, then she could be scratching those areas causing red patches, usually related to some form of skin allergy or parasite. Your local veterinarian should examine her skin and possibly perform routine tests to rule out parasites such as fleas or mites, check for possible bacteria or fungal infection, and check for other signs related to allergies. Following the exam, your veterinarian will offer specific treatment to help this condition. Be sure to check any other cats in your household for similar problems. Finally, if you have any other questions, I am happy to consult with you. Thank you and good luck. Steve Popish, DVM

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