Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 1/18/2011

Question
QUESTION: My 9 year old cat has been outside for 2 days. Came inside with balance problem and scratching at her ear. Also one her hind legs is not right and weak. whats wrong ?

ANSWER: She needs to see a vet.  She may have an ear problem, like an infection, mites, or an injury that resulted in a ruptured eardrum.

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QUESTION: She has draining coming from the ear with foul odor. Indicative of an infection ? If so, is it easily treated by the local vet with antibiotic ?

Answer
This is most likely a middle or an inner ear infection.  Many vets can treat this type of infection, but I would try and get this cat to a vet with a video otoscope (you may have to make some phone calls to see if anyone has one in your area) so that if there is a growth (polyp or tumor) or a middle ear problem, they can see it.