What crusty ears can look like
Crusty ears in cats can mean dark, crumbly debris inside the ear, or scabs and flaky crusts on the ear flap and edges. They are a sign, not a diagnosis. Several conditions cause them, including ear mites, infections, allergies, and fungal infection, and treatment differs for each. Because of this, a vet exam is the safest way to find out what is going on.
Healthy ears for comparison
A healthy cat ear is generally clean and pale pink inside, with little to no wax and no odor. The outer ear flap should be covered with fur without bald patches or scabs. Redness, swelling, discharge, or a bad smell are reasons to have the ears checked. If you look, do so gently in a calm moment, and do not push anything into the canal.
Ear mites
Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are tiny parasites that live in the ear canal and feed on wax and skin oils. A typical sign is dark, dry, crumbly debris often compared to coffee grounds, together with intense itching, head shaking, and scratching. Mites spread through close contact and can pass between cats and dogs, so other pets in the home usually need to be considered. Your vet can confirm mites by looking at the ear or examining a swab under the microscope, and will recommend suitable treatment. Some flea products also treat mites (see how to check if a cat has fleas), but only use what your vet advises.
Can indoor cats get ear mites?
Yes, it is possible. Indoor cats can be exposed through contact with other pets, a new kitten or adopted cat, or a dog that lives in the household. Being indoors lowers the risk but does not remove it.
Other causes
- Bacterial or yeast infections: often with a thick or sticky discharge, redness, and an unpleasant smell. There is frequently an underlying cause.
- Allergies and dermatitis: food or environmental allergies can cause itchy, inflamed skin, with scabs on the ear flap from scratching.
- Ringworm: a fungal skin infection that can cause scaly, crusty, hairless patches. It can spread to people, so see a vet.
- Sun damage: pale or white ear tips can be affected by sun exposure and may develop crusting. Any sore on an ear tip that does not heal should be checked.
- Wounds: bites or scratches from fights can scab and become infected; see cleaning a cat wound.
Does ear dermatitis go away?
It depends on the cause. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation, and if the underlying trigger, such as a parasite or an allergy, is found and managed, the skin often improves. If the trigger remains, the problem can return. A vet can help identify the cause and suggest a long-term plan.
Can I put Neosporin on a cat’s ear?
It is best not to. Cats groom themselves and may lick or swallow products, and ointments can trap dirt or mask the problem. Human products are generally not recommended for cats unless a vet specifically advises them. Ask your vet what is safe for your cat’s particular case.
When to see a vet and what to expect
See a vet if the crusting persists, if there is odor, discharge, redness, bleeding, head tilt, loss of balance, or marked head shaking. A vet may use an otoscope to look in the ear and take a swab for examination. Prompt treatment may help prevent complications such as a blood-filled swelling of the ear flap (aural hematoma) from head shaking.
Ear care to avoid
- Do not use cotton swabs or push anything deep into the ear canal.
- Do not use random drops, peroxide, or home remedies.
- Do not clean ears aggressively when they are sore. A vet can show you what, if anything, is suitable.
Do cats have good hearing?
Cats generally have very sensitive hearing, including for high-pitched sounds. That is one reason ear pain and irritation can be so bothersome to them, and why persistent ear problems are worth treating.