Cats' ears are highly sensitive and enable cats to achieve excellent hunting results. However, outdoor cats in particular can suffer injuries, illnesses and parasites in their ears. These should be treated quickly.
The cat's ear - a marvel of nature
Cats are superior to us in some ways. Above all, this includes their hearing. While we can only perceive sounds up to a frequency of around 20,000 Hz, they can reach frequencies of up to 65,000 Hz. Hearing the beep of a mouse is no problem for them. But that's not all: where the sound comes from is also important when hunting. For us, this would only be possible to a very limited extent by moving our head back and forth. A cat does this simply with its ears. It has 32 muscles in each ear that allow it to turn its ears in all directions independently of each other. This enables them to assess the direction and distance of prey very well.
Cats' ears are not just for hearing
Although ears are primarily there to hear, they also perform other tasks in cats. For them, they are also a means of communication. When they are calm and pointing forward, they indicate relatively relaxed hearing. However, if they move rapidly back and forth, are directed backwards or are even laid flat against the body (to protect it), then this is a sign of extreme tension. In the event of an encounter with another cat, an attack is imminent.
A cat's ears also serve another purpose - balance. The so-called vestibular system is located partly in the brain, but also in the inner ear. It coordinates head and eye movements and ensures perfect balance. Together with its tail, this enables the cat to balance easily over a garden fence or a board, for example.
Diseases and dangers for cats' ears
A cat's ears are covered with hair both on the outside and inside. On the outside, they are intended to protect against mechanical influences, while on the inside they are primarily intended to prevent the ingress of dirt and dust. However, ear damage cannot be completely avoided. The following are to be expected:
- Injuries
Injuries can occur, especially in free-roaming dogs, if they roam through the undergrowth, if awns get caught on them or if they get into an altercation with a conspecific. - Parasites
Parasites can settle in the warm and slightly moist ear cavities. Ear mites are among the most common pests. - Inflammations
Fungi and bacteria can lead to inflammation in the ear. This is why the ears should always be checked and kept clean.
How do I recognize ear mites in cats?
Ear mites are smaller than one millimeter and can hardly be seen with the human eye. However, larger numbers of these parasites lead to visible damage to the inner ear. Redness, swelling and crusting occur. The unpleasant itching also causes the cat to scratch more and shake its head. If a cat is suspected of having mites, it should be taken to the vet immediately, as mite infestation is extremely contagious. The doctor will use an otoscope to examine the cat's ears to get an accurate picture.
What treatment options are there for a mite infestation?
A mite infestation is very unpleasant, but does not generally pose a major risk. If the vet has detected the small arachnids in the cat's ear, treatment with medication is carried out. This can consist of antiparasitics, anti-inflammatory ointments and antibiotic ear drops. Treatment must normally be carried out over a period of at least three weeks in order to successfully kill all stages of the mites. It is also advisable to treat any other cats living in the home as well. Surfaces and objects that could be contaminated with ear mites should also be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Otherwise there is a risk that the mites will reappear after a short break.
How do I clean my cat's ears?
To speed up the course of the disease, it is advisable to clean the ears in between or before using medication. However, this must be done very carefully and should never be done with normal cotton buds. This could transport impurities deeper into the ear and damage the eardrum. Ask your vet whether he recommends special cotton buds for use on animals or whether it is better to clean the ear with a cotton cloth. The cloth should only be slightly damp and the wiping motion should be from the inside to the outside. An ear cleaner can then be dripped directly into the ear. It dissolves the dirt that falls out when the ear is shaken. A cloth can also be used again. However, this should also depend on how smoothly the cat tolerates the procedure. If the stress is too great, the next cleaning should be carried out at a later date.