👂 Ear Scanner · Cats

Cat ear infection, mites and infections screened fast

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) and yeast/bacterial ear infections are the most common cat ear conditions in India. Dark crumbly discharge, head shaking, and constant scratching are the key signs. PawCheck screens for severity in seconds, free.

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PawCheck is a wellness screening tool · Not a veterinary diagnostic device · Always consult a qualified veterinarian

About cat ear infections and ear mites

Dark crumbly discharge, ear mites or infection?

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) and yeast/bacterial ear infections are both very common in Indian cats, and both cause similar signs: head shaking, scratching at the ears, and dark discharge. PawCheck's Ear scanner helps assess severity while you arrange a vet visit.

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What it looks like

Dark, crumbly, coffee-ground-like discharge filling the ear canal, the hallmark of ear mites. Head shaking and vigorous scratching at the ears or side of the face. In yeast/bacterial infections, the discharge may be more liquid and foul-smelling. The ear flap may be reddened or thickened.

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Ear mites, endemic in India

Otodectes cynotis, the ear mite, is endemic in India's cat population, particularly among community and multi-cat household cats. Mites spread through direct cat-to-cat contact and are highly contagious. A single cat with mites will typically infect all cats in the household quickly.

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Cats most affected

Kittens and young cats are most vulnerable to ear mites. Outdoor and indoor-outdoor cats face the highest exposure risk from contact with other cats. Any cat in a multi-cat household where one cat has ear mites is at high risk, as transmission is rapid and efficient.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about cat ear infections

Can PawCheck screen for ear infections in my cat? +

Yes. PawCheck's Ear scanner assesses cat ear health and gives a Normal, Monitor, or Urgent severity result. Take a clear photo of the ear area for an assessment in under 10 seconds. Use PawCheck to monitor between vet visits or to decide urgency when symptoms appear.

How do I know if my cat has ear mites or a yeast infection? +

Ear mites produce a distinctive dark, crumbly, coffee-ground-like discharge. Yeast or bacterial infections tend to produce a more liquid, malodorous discharge. PawCheck's Ear scanner screens for these visual differences. However, a veterinarian using an otoscope is needed for definitive identification.

Is PawCheck free? +

Yes. Free with 5 scans per month. Pro plan ₹99/month for unlimited scans.