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My cat's ear has dark discharge. Is it dirty, mites, or infection?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 14 lbs

Is this just a dirty cat ear, aka lots of wax build up because its dirty? or do you think its possibly mites, or god forbid an infection?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2021

Hi and thanks for your request.
This is likely to be caused by the proliferation of a certain yeast called Malassezia spp. In the pic the quantity of discharge does not seem a lot and does not look like there is any inflammation..
An ear cleaner like canaural or sancerum could easily resolve this presentation.

7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 7th, 2018
Poor Nana! It sounds like she could have an ear infection based on your description, and she may have ear mites causing it. It could also be caused by bacteria or yeast. She will need to see a vet first thing in the morning for it, as it is clearly causing her a lot of discomfort. The vet can diagnose what is causing her ear problems, and can prescribe treatment for it. Good luck, I hope this helps!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on October 26th, 2020
This could be ear mites, but it could also be a yeast or bacterial infection. Without seeing Zia in person, I can't say what exactly is causing her to scratch her ears. She does need to see a vet asap to have this treated, as leaving it untreated can lead to hearing loss. Please take her into a vet today. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ann Dion, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 3rd, 2017
Hello. It looks like Lucky has some black/dark discharge in his ear. If his ears are very itchy and he is scratching, the most likely cause is ear mites. If he isn't scratching, and the discharge is waxy, then it is likely yeast. If you take Lucky to your vet they will help clean the ear, show you how to clean the ears, and also determine the cause of the discharge and tell you how to treat it. They will need to do a swab and look at it under the microscope. Good luck with Lucky!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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