Expert: Jessica - 7/17/2009

Question
Jessice,
My cat is not siamese, just a domestic short hair, 16 years old. Yesterday I noticed bleeding just in front of his ear where the hair is shorter and the pink skin is visible but not down in the ear canal. Last night I noticed the same bleeding in the exact same position on his other ear. There is no smell and no sign if mites. I've booked him in to see a vet but wondered if you'd ever seen anything like this before as I'm rather worried about him.
Rachel

Answer
Hi Rachel.  I have seen this, and it's usually self-inflicted due to scratching.  If you see no trace of ear mites and don't detect an odor which could indicate a yeast infection, food or environmental allergies may be the cause itchiness inside the ears.  

I’m not sure if your kitty goes outside, but if so, mange might be a possibility.  Sarcoptic mange is most common in cats, and demodectic mange is also sometimes seen.  Both are often found in the area you describe.  The mites are spread through direct contact with other infected animals.  

Another cause of skin itchiness could be fungal or bacteria skin infections.  A fungus called tinea (ringworm) spores are found most everywhere – in the soil and even in the air.  Cats are generally very resistant to the germ, but they can become compromised against it when they are older.  Usually, the skin will become crusty first, and then the cat may scratch it until it bleeds.  The use of a fluorescent lamp or a skin culture can help diagnose this infection.  Bacterial infections such as staph can also be extremely itchy.  Antibiotics can clear both of these.

In many cases, some antibiotic cream, perhaps with a topical steroid, will help the area to feel better and keep it clean while the underlying problem is treated appropriately.  If deemed appropriate, the vet can prescribe this.  Hope she’s feeling better soon!

Good luck,
Jessica