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

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!

Some breeds, such as Scottish Folds can have flat faces and curled ears. This is caused by a genetic mutation, and is considered normal (and desirable) for the breed. There shouldn't be any problem with this, however checking the ears regularly to make sure they stay clean and dry is a good idea.

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.

I am sorry to hear about your kitty! If her ears have been checked by a vet to ensure there is no infection I would be suspicious she could have an allergy, either to a food ingredient https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951526 (most often a protein source and not grain as so many pet food commercials would have you believe) or an allergy to something in the environment like pollen/dust/etc. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952664 . I would recommend bringing Chessie into the vet for an examination. This often requires at least a short course of medication to get the itching under control, such as a steroid, Atopica (cyclosporine) or Apoquel. The vet can discuss if a diet trial with a hypoallergenic diet is recommended and help you decide on the best diet for Chessie to try.

It is likely ge has pain and discomfort, possibly from a polyp or middle ear infection. A full vet check is recommended, possibly under sedation. Your vet can also assess his full coat condition and may recommend an omega fatty acid supplement as a natural antiinflammatory and moisturizer

Hello, and thanks for your question. If Gizmo is suddenly scratching at her ear, usually that does mean that it is uncomfortable or painful. Gizmo may have an ear infection or ear mites, so it’s best to have a vet take a look so she can receive the appropriate treatment. Hope this helps!

This presentation could be due to a trauma (autotraumatism) or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any scratching. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.