How to Treat Frostbite on the Ear of An Outdoor Cat

Frostbite occurs when the blood vessels near the surface of a cat's body part--typically the ears, tail or feet--constrict to conserve heat. With less blood finding its way to the body part, the skin tissue itself can freeze and die. To determine if a cat suffers from frostbite, check the temperature and color of its ears. If the ear is cold, gray, pale and hard, the cat probably has frostbite. The ear may also redden if it is beginning to thaw. In this case, the ears may appear swollen and hot.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring the cat indoors as soon as you suspect frostbite.

    • 2

      Soak a towel or washcloth in warm water. PetEducation.com suggests using water between 104 degrees and 108 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Wring the excess water from the towel, leaving it moist rather than sopping.

    • 4

      Apply the warm, moist towel to the affected ear. Keep the towel in place until the tissue begins to warm and circulation returns.