My cat has a black bug on ear, black gunk, and keeps scratching.
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered
There was a tiny, black, shiny bug on the outside of my cats ear. I picked it, and it was hanging on. I think it was biting the cat. There is also black debris inside the cats ear. He excessively scratches it.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 20th, 2018
That was likely a little chicken flea. They tend to latch on to the ears and do not move until they are fully satisfied. As for the black debris in your kitty's ear , this may be an ear infection caused by ear mites or bacteria. I suggest you take Rex to your vet for an ear exam. If you do flea preventive care with your cat the chicken fleas should get killed as all other fleas will too.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 22nd, 2019
I can’t tell from the photo but are those black things fleas? Do they move around? Could it be related to getting in to something like coffee grounds or soil? If they are scabs, it could be related to an allergic reaction. If the scratching is related to these black things, they are obviously causing him irritation. If you are unsure what they are or where they came from, or if he seems itchy, I recommend to have him examined by the veterinarian. The doctor should be able to know what they are and how to treat them. I hope he feels better quickly and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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