Cat Ear Tumor Symptoms

Cat ear tumors are growths in the ear canal, either benign or malignant. Both create an unpleasant medical problem for your pet. Benign ear tumors develop at about age seven on average, while malignant ear tumors appear at about age 11, according to the Pet Cancer Center. You can look for a number of identifiable symptoms that suggest a cat might have a tumor and need medical attention.

  1. Presence of a Mass

    • The presence of a mass inside the cat's ear constitutes one of the most easily identifiable signs of an ear tumor. The Pet Cancer Center notes that if the mass is ulcerated and bleeding, it is likely malignant.

    Smelly Discharge

    • An ear canal tumor often issues a discharge with a foul order.

    Itchiness

    • The cat may feel an itching sensation and try to scratch the affected part of the ear if it has a tumor.

    Sores

    • PetMD notes that a cat may have an ear tumor if red, crusted sores appear on the edges of the ears. The redness may disappear only to return again, and will likely expand over time.