#MiddleburyCT #EarInfection #Cats
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My cat Chester seemed perfectly healthy, but when I brought him in for his annual checkup, the veterinarian said that he has an ear infection. I didn’t notice any behavior or odd symptoms previously. I gave Chester the expensive ear drops he was prescribed, and he seems just fine. Was the vet just making up the infection? – Jeanine C., Buffalo, New York
DEAR JEANINE: Cats are really good at hiding the symptoms of an illness. I’m glad you brought Chester in for his regular checkup, because those are very helpful in determining hidden acute problems like an ear infection, and noting potential problems (for example, if his weight is getting higher than normal, or he’s developing arthritis).
Now that Chester has been treated, keep an eye out for signs of the infection recurring. Look, listen and smell (yes, smell!) around his ears periodically and note certain behaviors. Hold Chester on your lap and shine a little flashlight into each ear. A healthy ear is pale pink, with little to no earwax visible and no debris.
Trouble signs include: A strong odor from the ear; lots of earwax buildup; debris or discharge that looks like coffee grounds; or discharge that is yellow or black. You (or the vet) may see redness or swelling of the ear flap or in the ear canal. Ear infections cause behavioral changes, too. Some of them are subtle: Chester may shake his head after you scratch around his ears, or he may tilt his head more in one direction than another. More serious symptoms include loss of balance, disorientation, hearing loss or even facial paralysis.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.
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