Cat Ear Care: Yeast Infection

Although far more common in dogs, ear infections due to yeast can also strike cats. If not properly treated, yeast ear infections can become a recurring problem.

  1. Cause

    • Food allergies, hormonal abnormalities and excessive moisture are the main causes of yeast ear infections in cats.

    Effects

    • Cats with an ear infection often shake their heads and scratch at their ears, resulting in inflammation. The yeast infection may also produce a foul odor and a yellowish or black discharge.

    Identification

    • To identify a yeast ear infection, veterinarians analyze an ear wax sample under a microscope. Your veterinarian may also perform yeast cultures to confirm diagnosis.

    Treatment

    • Veterinarians treat yeast ear infections with eardrops, ointments and medications such as Chlorhexidine and clotramizole. Also, regularly flush the cat's ears, typically with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution, to remove wax. Treatment usually takes two weeks.

    Considerations

    • Persian cats are more prone to ear infections than other breeds.