My cat's ear infections keep returning, plus it's swollen. What now?

Question

My cat has ear inflammation that's repeating several times every year,the vet have perscribed different many things,but they helped only temporarily,the most effective were surolan drops but they content prednisolone and I'm little concerned should I use it again,also the part under his ear is little swollen and the hair is now fallen there, I'm worried if that means he has inner otitis,not outer, our vet doesn't want to make more tests,what should I do now, please for advice,thank you. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 8 years and 7 months old

Shaneez Wallani, DVM · Accepted Answer

Ear infections can be caused by bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, or a combination of these, and can be associated with dietary or environmental allergies or sensitivities, immune system disorders, or a combination of the above. If the Surolan helped but the infection has returned, Melcho needs to see a vet to have an ear swab done. Your vet can look at the sample under the microscope and treat appropriately based on what is found. Trying different medications without testing to determine the cause is not effective, and can lead to bacterial resistance to medication. Your vet will likely need to examine the ear with a scope to see if the ear drum is intact, as some medications cannot be used safely if the eardrum is ruptured. They may also recommend a culture and sensitivity test of a swab from the ear to help figure out what specific bacteria could be present and what medications they are sensitive to. Ear infections can be very painful, and as you mentioned, can sometimes progress to include the middle or inner ear, where they can cause neurologic signs or permanent hearing loss. Please book an appointment to have Melcho seen as soon as possible to help get him feeling better, and you can request a referral from your veterinarian if they are not willing or able to provide further care as you mentioned.

My cat's ear infections keep returning, plus it's swollen. What now?

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