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Cat has red crusty discharge on ears, mouth, and eyes. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7 years and 1 month old | 14 lbs

Hello! I've noticed today my cat seems to have a dried 'discharge' of sorts on this inner of his ears, around his mouth and corner of his eyes. It's a sort of light to dark red-ish colour? He is showing no signs of discomfort (not that cats really do). But I'm wondering if anyone can help me identify what this is? I would greatly appreciate it!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 17th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Sully. The area around his lips could be a mild case of feline acne. The area near the ear can be seen if with an ear infection. If the ears are itchy, the cat will scratch. This can cause wounds and debris near the canal opening. He will need to see his veterinarian to have an examination. The ear canals curve deep into the skull. So a special instrument is needed to look inside. If an infection is suspected, a swab is typically taken from each ear canal and evaluated under the microscope. I hope this information helps!

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