Cat Keeps Scratching Ear: How to Help Your Cat Find Relief

icon April 9, 2025
by:puaintapets

Does your cat scratch his ears constantly? While occasional scratching of the ear is normal, persistent scratching may indicate something more serious. Ear problems in cats are more common than many pet owners realize and can be the result of a variety of causes, some mild, some more serious. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the possible reasons behind your cat's ear discomfort, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from happening again. We'll also introduce a trusted natural remedy that cat owners are turning to for relief.

cat keeps scratching ear​

Why does my cat keep scratching its ear?

1. Ear mites

One of the most common causes of ear scratching in cats, especially kittens, is ear mites. These tiny parasites feed on wax and oil in your cat's ear canal, causing intense itching and irritation.

Signs of ear mites:

  • Constantly scratching your ears

  • Shaking your head

  • Dark, brittle debris (looks like coffee grounds)

  • Red, swollen ears

2. Allergies

Cats can develop allergies to food, pollen, dust mites, or even flea bites. Allergies often cause general itching, but the ears can be particularly affected.

Symptoms include:

  • Itching around the head and ears

  • Red and inflamed skin

  • Secondary infections due to scratching

3. Yeast or bacterial infections

An overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the ears can cause severe discomfort. These infections often develop due to excessive moisture, ear mites, or allergies.

Typical signs:

  • Bad odor from the ears

  • Yellow or brown discharge

  • Red, swollen ears

  • Head tilt

4. Foreign objects or excess wax

Sometimes, a foreign object, such as grass seed or excess wax, can get trapped in the ear canal, leading to irritation and scratching.

5. Ear injuries

Scratches, wounds, or trauma around the ear, whether from games, fights, or accidents, can cause your cat to scratch due to pain or healing discomfort.

6. Polyps or tumors

In rare cases, persistent ear problems can be caused by growths within the ear canal, especially in older cats.

The importance of addressing ear scratching early

If ear problems are not treated, the following situations can occur:

  • Chronic infections

  • Permanent hearing loss

  • Ear hematoma (from excessive scratching or head shaking)

  • Spreading mites to other pets

The sooner you address the problem, the better the outcome for your feline friend.

Home treatment: a natural and effective solution

An effective way to control and prevent ear problems in cats is to use a natural and reliable ear cleaner. One of the most recommended options by pet owners is:

Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner

Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner is a veterinarian-recommended formula designed to safely clean, deodorize, and soothe your cat's ears.

Key Benefits:

  • Natural & Safe: Contains herbal extracts without harsh chemicals, making it gentle for regular use.

  • Relieves itching quickly: Soothes irritation caused by mites, infections, or allergies.

  • Removes wax and debris: Removes earwax buildup and dirt that can lead to infections.

  • Odor Control: Eliminates the unpleasant ear odor commonly associated with ear problems.

  • Easy to use: Comes with an easy-to-use dropper for direct application in the ear canal.

    Buy now and help your cat have healthy ears 

    Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner

Whether you're treating a mild infection or looking to prevent recurring problems, this ear cleaner is a must-have in your cat care toolkit.

You can get it directly from Puainta's Ear Cleaner.

How to Use an Ear Cleaner on Your Cat Safely

Using an ear cleaner like Puainta® correctly is essential to achieve the best results:

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Secure your cat: Wrap your cat gently in a towel to prevent sudden movements.

  2. Tilt the head: Hold the cat's head slightly tilted to the side.

  3. Apply cleanser: Squeeze a few drops of Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner into the ear canal.

  4. Massage the base: Gently massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds to loosen the residue.

  5. Let your cat shake: Allow your cat to shake its head naturally.

  6. Clean up debris: Use a soft cotton ball or pad to clean the outer ear and remove loose debris.

Important: Never use cotton swabs inside your cat's ear canal. This can push debris further in or damage the ear.

How to Prevent Ear Problems in Cats

1. Routine ear checkups

Inspect your cat's ears weekly. Look for redness, swelling, unusual odor, or debris.

2. Regular cleaning

Use a gentle, natural ear cleaner like Puainta® once a week or as recommended by your veterinarian.

3. Flea and mite prevention

Make sure your cat is protected with the right flea and mite prevention medications.

4. Manage allergies

Work with your veterinarian to identify and manage environmental or food allergies.

5. Avoid moisture in the ears

Keep water out of your cat's ears during baths or grooming sessions.

When to see a veterinarian

While natural cleansers can help, some symptoms warrant a visit to the vet:

  • No improvement after 3 to 5 days of cleansing

  • Pus or bloody discharge

  • Severe swelling or bleeding

  • Loss of balance or tilt of the head

  • Tenderness around the ears

These could indicate a deeper infection or a medical problem that requires prescription treatment.

FAQ

Why is my cat scratching its ear but there are no mites?

Scratching without mites can indicate allergies, yeast or bacterial infections, excess wax, or even injury. A veterinarian can diagnose the exact cause.

Can ear mites disappear on their own in cats?

No, ear mites require treatment. If left unchecked, they can lead to chronic infections and even hearing damage.

How can I treat my cat's itchy ears at home?

You can use a natural ear cleaner such as Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner to gently remove residue and soothe irritation. However, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

What home remedies are safe for cleaning cat ears?

Home remedies such as diluted apple cider vinegar can cause irritation. It's best to use a professionally formulated cleanser like Puainta®.

Can food allergies cause ear scratching in cats?

Yes, food allergies can manifest as irritation of the skin and ears. An elimination diet can help identify triggers.

Final Thoughts

A cat that constantly scratches its ears is usually a sign of discomfort that should not be ignored. From dust mites to allergies, the causes vary, but fortunately, so do the solutions. Regular cleaning with a safe and natural ear product such as Puainta® Natural Ear Cleaner can go a long way in maintaining the health of your cat's ears.

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