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My cat is head tilting and his ear is sensitive. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 14 years and 9 months old | 13 lbs

Plz help, not sure what to do. 15 yr old male cat, recent cancer surgery (2 months ago) on right rear. Fine until 12 hrs ago, started tilting/turning head left and meowing. Left ear is very sensitive, but no other symptoms to suggest ear infection or stroke. Balance/appetite good, no nausea, jumps on bed/chairs. Vet offices closed for holiday but ER is open. Was playing happily 15 mins before first head tilt/meow. Been mostly sleeping since, not sure what to do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2019

I'm sorry Frankie is acting oddly. Since its been a couple of months since the surgery, I think its highly unlikely that its related to the surgery itself, though if the cancer that was removed had metastasized (spread to another area of the body) before it was removed, it could result in these symptoms if it went to the brain or inner ear. Since she is eating, she is not vomiting, and she is able to walk and jump on furniture normally, as long as she seems to be sleeping comfortably when resting and is responsive when she's awake, I don't think you need to seek emergency care, at least not just yet. If she seem to be getting worse, if she starts to seem painful, if her ability to walk is declining, if she stops eating or starts vomiting, seek ER care. Otherwise its reasonable to wait until your vet is open on Tuesday. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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