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Polyps in Ears of Cats

May 17,2024 | puaintapets

Ear polyps in cats are benign, fleshy growths that commonly arise from the middle ear and can extend to the ear canal and external auditory structures. These polyps are generally associated with chronic inflammation and infections, with young cats showing a higher predisposition, indicating a potential genetic link. The clinical manifestations of ear polyps include persistent ear scratching, head shaking, discharge, odor, hearing loss, and sometimes balance disturbances. Diagnosis typically involves otoscopic examination and may be supplemented with radiographic imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the growth. Treatment strategies vary from medical management, focusing on controlling secondary infections and inflammation, to surgical interventions like traction avulsion or more comprehensive procedures such as ventral bulla osteotomy. Laser ablation offers an alternative with minimal bleeding and reduced trauma. Post-operative care is crucial, as recurrence is common, necessitating ongoing veterinary supervision. This article reviews the etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment modalities for ear polyps in cats, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management to enhance outcomes and quality of life.

What Are Inflammatory Ear Polyps in Cats?

Inflammatory ear polyps are non-cancerous growths or lumps that appear in the ear canals or sometimes even the throat of cats. Composed of fibrous tissue and inflammatory cells, these polyps can vary in size and number. Although benign, their presence can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even a decreased quality of life for your cat. While any cat can develop ear polyps, they tend to be more common in younger cats. Polyps can affect various bodily functions, including hearing, balance, and in some cases where they appear in the throat, even breathing and swallowing.

Symptoms associated with ear polyps include persistent scratching at the ear, head shaking, hearing loss, and sometimes even respiratory issues for polyps affecting the throat. While these symptoms alone may not necessarily indicate the presence of a polyp, they are signs that a veterinary consultation is warranted.

Are Ear Polyps Painful in Cats?

Yes, ear polyps can be painful for cats. The discomfort arises primarily from the inflammation and irritation they cause within the ear. Cats with ear polyps may show signs of pain such as frequent scratching at the affected ear, head shaking, or rubbing their ear against furniture or the floor. Additionally, if the polyp leads to an infection, which is common, this can further increase the cat's discomfort due to increased inflammation and possible buildup of pus or fluid in the ear canal. If a cat is showing any signs of ear discomfort, a veterinary check-up is recommended to diagnose and treat the underlying issue effectively.

Causes of Inflammatory Ear Polyps in Cats

The specific cause of inflammatory ear polyps in cats remains unclear, although several contributing factors are currently under study. Possible reasons include:

  • Chronic Inflammation: Long-term inflammation of the ear canal can create an environment conducive to polyp growth.

  • Viral Infections: It's hypothesized that certain feline viral infections may predispose cats to developing ear polyps.

  • Genetic Predisposition: Some believe that certain breeds or genetic lines may be more prone to developing these polyps, although concrete evidence is lacking.

Because the exact cause is unknown, it's challenging to propose a definitive preventive measure against ear polyps. Nonetheless, understanding these potential causes can help in early diagnosis and treatment.

What Are The Symptoms of Inflammatory Ear Polyps in Cats?

Inflammatory ear polyps in cats can manifest a range of symptoms, primarily related to discomfort and irritation in the ear. Common symptoms include:

1. Persistent Scratching: Cats may scratch their ears frequently due to irritation or itching caused by the polyp.

2. Head Shaking: You might observe your cat shaking its head often, a behavior that helps to relieve discomfort or dislodge any material built up in the ear canal.

3. Ear Discharge: The presence of a polyp can lead to increased production of earwax or pus, especially if there is an associated infection. The discharge may be clear, yellow, brown, or bloody.

Ear Cleanser For Dogs & Cats- 60ml

Ear Cleanser For  Cats

Ensure your pet's ears are healthy. This cleaner can gently clean away dirt, wax, and damaged tissues in your pet's ears. This creates an environment for healthy tissue growth and eliminates head shaking and ear scratching caused by dirty or inflamed ears. This product comes with an easy applicator nozzle to facilitate use.

Why is ear cleaning important?

The structure of the cat’s ear canal makes it difficult for material trapped deep within the horizontal canal to be expelled without the assistance of cleanings. This material can lead to itchiness and ear infections if not removed.

polyps in ears of cats

4. Foul Odor: An unpleasant smell emanating from the ear is a common sign of infection that may accompany an ear polyp.

5. Hearing Loss: As the polyp grows, it can block the ear canal, leading to a reduction in hearing capability.

6. Tilting or Drooping of the Head: If the polyp affects the cat's balance or its position is particularly bothersome, the cat might tilt its head to one side more frequently.

7. Pain: Indications of pain can include the cat being more reclusive, irritability, or resistance to having its ears touched.

8. Changes in Balance or Coordination: In more severe cases, especially if the polyp extends into the inner ear, it can affect the cat’s balance and coordination, possibly resulting in clumsiness or circling behaviors.

If a cat exhibits any of these symptoms, a thorough examination by a veterinarian is crucial to confirm the presence of a polyp and to initiate appropriate treatment.

How are Inflammatory Ear Polyps in Cats Diagnosed?

Polyps in Ears of Cats

Anatomy

The ear canal is a long tube that originates at the base of the earflap and extends to the eardrum to form the external ear. The middle ear is a hollow cavity (bulla) within the skull that is separated by the eardrum and contains three fine bones that transmit sound to the inner ear.

The balance organ and a hearing organ that changes sound into electrical signals are located in the inner ear. The sympathetic nerves are located within the middle ear. The auditory tube runs from the middle ear to the throat.

Diagnosis

Signs of middle ear disease include shaking of the head, scratching the ear, rubbing the ear, sensitivity when the ear is touched, foul odor from the ear, and bloody or yellow/green discharge in the ear canal.

If the infection extends into the inner ear, your pet may keep the head in a tilted position, have continual shifting of the eyes, or walk in circles. Polyps that are in the throat may result in breathing difficulty.

Your veterinarian will examine the ear with an otoscope to diagnose an inflammatory polyp. The throat will be examined, as the polyp may grow down the auditory tube.

A complete blood count, FeLV and FIV tests, chemistry profile and urine testing are performed prior to surgery. Radiographs (x-rays) of the middle ear may show a thickening of this structure.

How are Inflammatory Ear Polyps in Cats Treated?

Treatment for ear polyps in cats is general