My cat's ear infection returned. Why is he lethargic and not eating?

Antibiotics can cause an upset stomach leading to a decreased appetite, but I'm concerned that it's excessive and Simba has other symptoms going on. If the ear infection is severe, it could cause these symptoms but I can't say for certain without seeing him in person. I'd take him into a vet immediately to get checked out.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Simba. Poor boy! I suspect he has an ear infection, which can be caused by yeast or bacteria. If he's bleeding from both ears, this is a very bad infection and could constitute an emergency. I would find to a vet to see him now to get this treated. Leaving it untreated can lead to hearing loss. I hope this helps!

Hello. An ear infection should not be causing your cat to be bleeding or not wanting to eat or drink. It sounds like your cat is very sick. I suggest you bring him back to the vet as soon as possible. Based on what you are describing, he could be very very sick.

Ear infections can be caused by bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, or a combination of these, and can be associated with dietary or environmental allergies or sensitivities, immune system disorders, or a combination of the above. If the Surolan helped but the infection has returned, Melcho needs to see a vet to have an ear swab done. Your vet can look at the sample under the microscope and treat appropriately based on what is found. Trying different medications without testing to determine the cause is not effective, and can lead to bacterial resistance to medication. Your vet will likely need to examine the ear with a scope to see if the ear drum is intact, as some medications cannot be used safely if the eardrum is ruptured. They may also recommend a culture and sensitivity test of a swab from the ear to help figure out what specific bacteria could be present and what medications they are sensitive to. Ear infections can be very painful, and as you mentioned, can sometimes progress to include the middle or inner ear, where they can cause neurologic signs or permanent hearing loss. Please book an appointment to have Melcho seen as soon as possible to help get him feeling better, and you can request a referral from your veterinarian if they are not willing or able to provide further care as you mentioned.

No, it’s not really common unless the rear infection has ruptured the ear drum and is really down in the middle ear, which is very very rare. I would be concerned that another problem is going on. I would recommend a follow up appointment with your veterinarian. They may want to perform some blood work for more information. Good luck, I hope he improves soon.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear Piper isn’t feeling well. If you have a pet ear cleaner you can use it once until you can get her to a vet. Ear infections are not an emergency per se, but do need to be addressed when your vet is open. If you don’t have a pet ear cleaner, I would leave it alone until you see your vet. Good luck and kisses to Piper!

Poor guy. It sounds like his ear infection was bad enough to possibly cause a rupture of the ear drum if he is dizzy or ataxic. If this is the case, then it can take 2-3 weeks for resolution of clinical signs as the ear drum grows back. His symptoms should not get worse and he should be showing gradual improvement if you have been treating for over a week, so if this is not the case then a rechk appt should be scheduled with your vet. In additions, your vet can prescribe some motion sickness medication to help him with his dizziness as well, so ask about this if it wasn't already prescribed. I do hope that Apollo's ear infection resolves soon! Best wishes and take care.