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Why does my cat's ear tip fold over after a nap and then unfold?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

Why is my cats ear folded over at the tip? He is currently being treated with Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream as he scratched the back of his ear raw from an ear infection. The infection is gone and now we’re trying to get the hair grow back on his ear (he’s still scratching from our dry heat in the house). But just recently I noticed the tip of his ear curling over- randomly and usually after he gets up from a nap. Sometimes one ear and sometimes both. It goes back to normal but not right away.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on February 18th, 2019

This is likely just because the cartilage in the ears are not as strong at the top. It isn't likely an issue as long as it isn't red, swollen, painful, scabbed, etc. If he continues to itch, I would just continue to follow up with your vet to ensure that the eat infection isn't coming back. I hope this helps! He is quite handsome!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on February 10th, 2019
That is unusual. The most common cause is a broken blood vessel bleeding under the skin producing a hematoma. Cartilage weakness otherwise is uncommon in cats and could signify a nutrition imbalance.
I recommend to have Finnigan seen by his veterinarian again to have the ear checked out. Make sure to take a photo of the food including the label and the side of the bag with the ingredients listed.
I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My cat's folded, damaged ears are itchy. Is this a health concern?

It may be part of his genetics as a lynx mix has curved pointed ears. Some scarring can create that also if there were prior ear infections that were not treated. Whichever the reason it does make it harder to examine the ears and clean then because of the folds and can lead to chronic ear infections.

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Hello. I am so sorry for your worries with Oreo. While I cannot confirm or diagnose the reason or the folded ear tips, I can tell you that this has been reported in cats that have been on chronic steroids, like methylprednisolone. Unfortunately, this is most likely permanent. I would suggest that your veterinarian monitor Oreo for Cushing's Disease as this is also a potential cause of ear folding ( & a possible consequence of long term steroid use). Good luck with Oreo & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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My cat's ear is bent, warm, and he's scratching. Should I take him to vet?

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