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What's this hard black nub on my new cat's ear? Is it a scab?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

Hey! I’m a new cat owner and as I was playing with my cat I felt something hard on her ear and it’s this almost black nub that I personally think could be a scab but I’m not entirely sure! (Her was looks wet because I tried cleaning it up with water)

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on June 25th, 2020

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It looks like a small, scabbed-up wound. As long as it is not bothering Koda, she is not scratching the ear excessively and there is no discharge around the scab, you should monitor her at home. It should fully heal up in 5-7 days. However, if the ear becomes swollen or painful, you will have to take her to your local vets for an appointment.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 23rd, 2018

    This looks like a scab in your pictures - I’m wondering if there was an insect bite or small wound there previously. It’s always difficult to say for certain what a lump is without being able to see and feel it in person so if it’s been there for more than a few days it would be a good idea to have your vet take a look.

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