Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat's ears are itchy with black gunk. Does she need a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed

Hello! I believe my cat has earmites and I'm not sure what to do. She won't let me touch her ears and it's been like this for a while. She is always scraching them and blackish brown stuff is coming out in little pieces. I read she could also have an infection with the ear mites. I am wondering if it is bad enough that I have to go to a vet? Please help!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 12th, 2017

Yes if you believe your cat has ear mites, I would see a veterinarian very soon to have this diagnosed and treated. Ear mites can be very irritating and itchy. Left untreated, secondary bacterial infection will occurrence in and around the ears as a result of the chronic itching. The appearance of black coffee ground like debris in the ear can be a sign of ear mites. I would have her seen soon. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 11th, 2017

    It's very possible but i couldn't tell you for sure without checking her, you can buy ear mite drops over the counter in most pet shops, if it doesn't get better within a few days of treatment- it's probably not ear mites and in that case you should take her to the vet to get it checked and treated.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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 small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
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