My cat has brown ear buildup. Is it just wax or an infection?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My cat has brown buildup in his ears...is it just wax or could he have an infection? I don’t think it’s ear mites because he isn’t itching excessively and my three other cats have not been affected by it.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 16th, 2020
Hello. This ear looks like a normal, healthy ear with some wax buildup. Ear infections typically will have classic symptoms of odor, redness, inflammation and often discomfort or itchiness. Your cat’s ear looks good, but if he is experiencing any discomfort or rubbing/scratching at the ear, have your vet check it out. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
8Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 13th, 2018
It's probably an ear infection, often it cannot be seen from the outside. Ear infections are very common in cats, it is usually caused by either yeast or bacterial disease. the treatment is usually simple and straightforward, you will have to take Lulu to the vet and get the ears checked, then a prescription ear drops will be prescribed according to the infectious agent.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 11th, 2018
The brown substance is likely ordinary ear wax. You can use a cotton ball and a pet approved ear cleaner, such as Epi-Otic, to gently clean the ears. If there is excessive wax, discharge or if Echo is scratching at it or shaking his head, then he may have an ear infection. This would have to be confirmed and treated by your veterinarian. You can read more about ear cleaning at the link below. https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-clean-your-cat-s-ears-what-you-need-to-know/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 3rd, 2017
A small amount of ear wax can be normal. If there is a large amount of wax, any redness, pain, or Sweetie is scratching excessively at her ears, it may be an ear infection and she would need to see a veterinarian. Cats are typically pretty good at keeping themselves clean so you really shouldn't need to clean her ears very often.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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