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What's this rough, bumpy patch with white flakes behind my cat's ear?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 10 lbs

My cat has a rough and bumpy patch below her ear. There are white speckles present. Is this cat dandruff? She doesn't seem to be scratching it excessively and it doesn't appear to even phase her. It's only bothering me. I don't want to run to the vet if it's just dry skin or something I could treat at home, I just don't know how I could treat it

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 5th, 2017

Unfortunately, without seeing it in person, I can't say for certain what is causing this rough and bumpy patch beneath Shiki's ear. I can say that if she is scratching below her ear, that can be a sign of an ear infection, and I do think she should see a vet for it. Ear infections in cats can be caused by ear mites, yeast, or bacteria, and can only be treated by medications from the vet. I recommend having Shiki seen by a vet tomorrow to diagnose if she does have an ear infection, and to get medications to treat it if she does. It's important to treat any ear infection promptly, as leaving it untreated can lead to hearing loss.

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