Why is my cat's ear wax black?

A small amount of black discharge may be observed in some cats. A large amount of black wax is often seen in cats with ear mites.

What is the black stuff in my cats ear?

Mites also stimulate the wax producing glands inside the ear canal. The result is a black, crusty build-up in the ears that resembles coffee grounds. This discharge is made of blood, wax, debris, and mites themselves. In some cases, this crust can thicken enough to block the ear canal.

How do you tell if your cat has ear mites or just dirty ears?

What does black ear wax mean?

Gray or black earwax usually means there is a buildup of dust in the ear or impacted earwax. If you are experiencing hearing loss, this could be a sign of impacted earwax.

What color is earwax when infected?

Earwax can also signal if there is an issue like an infection or heavy debris in the ear. Green. This earwax color typically indicates infection. If you notice pus or a foul smell along with green earwax, it's important to see a doctor right away.

Cat Ear Mites: 3 New Remedies

What color is ear infection drainage?

Most often, fluid leaking out of your ear is earwax. Ear drainage can be due to a ruptured eardrum from trauma, foreign objects, or middle ear infection. In this case, you will see a white, slightly bloody, or yellow discharge from the ear. Another common cause is infection or irritation of the external ear canal.

Why are my indoor cat's ears so dirty?

As with humans, it's completely normal for a small amount of earwax to form in your cat's ears. However, excessive wax buildup can occur if your kitty has allergies, a bacterial infection, systemic inflammation, ear mites, or a yeast infection. A cat's brown earwax often resembles dirt or dried blood inside the ears.

What does an Ear infection look like in a cat?

Symptoms of Ear infection in Cats

Ear discharge resembling coffee grounds. Yellowish or black discharge. Head tilting. Swelling or redness in the ear canal.

Can an indoor cat get ear mites?

Ear mites are the leading cause of feline ear problems. These microscopic parasites can be extremely itchy for your pet if undiagnosed. Whether your cat is an outdoor or indoor cat, they can be easily affected by these mites.

What color are cat ear mites?

Ear mites are tiny animals and are a fairly common parasite in both cats and dogs. They look like tiny white dots, but can barely be seen with the naked eye.

Do cat ear mites go away on their own?

To ensure all mite eggs have been eliminated treatment needs to continue for a minimum of 3 weeks. If using a single use product such as Revolution one dose is often enough to get rid of an ear mite infection but it will still take up to three or four weeks for the infection to completely clear up.

What does normal earwax look like in cats?

Having no ear wax is pretty common for cats, especially if they are healthy. However, there are many conditions that can make the ear wax look unhealthy. Healthy ear wax should be light brown and surrounded by pale skin.

What does a yeast infection look like in cats ears?

A thick brown or black discharge is a hallmark of yeast infection, although other types of ear infections and also ear mites can result in a dark discharge. Ears and skin with Malassezia overgrowth or infection often have an odor and some owners become adept at recognizing the yeasty smell.

How often should I clean my cat's ears?

Most cats have healthy, clean ears and never need to have their ears cleaned. However, it is recommended to clean your cat's ears if you notice discharge or an odor when examining the ear.

How can I treat my cats ear fungus?

Can I use Q tips to clean my cat's ears?

Never use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to clean your cat's ears — these substances just aren't safe for your kitty. Also, never use cotton-tipped swabs, like Q-tips, in a cat's ear at home. It's just too easy to push debris and wax further down into the ear canal.

Does a lot of earwax mean ear infection?

While varying shades and textures of earwax can come from healthy ears, there are still some instances in which a person should see a doctor. Anyone experiencing discharge from the ear that is not earwax should consult a doctor, as this could be a sign of an ear infection.

What does drainage from ear infection look like?

If too much fluid or pressure builds up inside the middle ear, the eardrum can actually burst (shown here). If that happens, you may see yellow, brown, or white fluid draining from your child's ear.

When should I be concerned about ear drainage?

When should I seek medical attention? You should call your doctor if the discharge from your ear is white, yellow, or bloody or if you've had discharge for more than five days. Sometimes ear discharge may occur with other symptoms, such as a fever. Tell your doctor if you have any accompanying symptoms.

What does GREY earwax mean?

Common earwax colors

white-gray, which is dry.

Why is my dog's ear wax black?

Dark brown or black—This type of earwax is commonly associated with yeast and/or bacterial ear infections. It's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if earwax is this color. Brown—Light brown earwax is normal and expected. If the wax is accompanied by odor or inflammation, it can be a sign of infection.

What is the black gunk in my dog's ear?

Black gunk in a dog's ear is often a sign of an ear mite infestation, but it could also indicate an ear infection. Other possibilities include wax buildup, complications from allergies, dirt or debris, or a flea infestation. Clean the ears routinely and be sure any problems are examined by a vet.