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My new cat keeps scratching her ears. Is it an ear infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My husband and I just adopted a new cat last week Sunday. She is such a sweetheart. Unfortunately she has been itching around her ears on and off. What could be wrong?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 13th, 2017

It sounds like Lily has an ear infection, which could be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacterial. I would have her seen by a vet tomorrow, as the cause of the ear infection would need to be diagnosed in order to treat her properly. The vet can diagnose if she does have an ear infection, the cause of it, and can prescribe treatment for it.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 29th, 2017

    HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Juli may have ear mites or an ear infection. Ear infections are caused by an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. I'd have your Vet check her ears when you bring her back for her next vaccines. They do a swab of the wax and look at it under the microscope to check for mites or infection. The Vet will then prescribe the appropriate medications. Good luck!

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