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My cats have itchy ears, scratching wounds. Is it contagious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 1 year old

Hi, my pet cat is having trouble because his ears are itchy and his forehead has many wounds because of sratching, sometimes its bleeding. And its like he's head is tingling and he scratch his ears. I dont know what to do, I'm very worried. The other cats is developing like hs skin disease, even the baby kitties is starting to develop like muming. Help pls

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2017

These lesions look suspicious of scabies mites, ringworm and/or this could be a result of a current ear infection (ear mites) and fleas. Neither of these conditions can be properly diagnosed and treated without the help of your veterinarian unfortunately. I would try to take at least 1 cat in to the vet to have a skin scrape and ear exam + ear cytology (if debris is seen inside the ear canal) to try and confirm the diagnosis so that we know how to best help your pets.
I am highly suspicious that this is a contagious skin disease however because multiple pets have skin problems at the same time. Poor cats. Here is a website link for financial help if needed http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

I hope that Muming and your other cats get their skin problems resolved soon. The vet should know just what they need after the necessary preliminary testing is done. Best wishes and take care.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 3rd, 2019

    Anytime you see both pets developing the same symptoms, it is suspicious for external parasites (fleas/mites) or ringworm infection (which people can get). I recommend to make an appointment for Elliot and the other cats to have an exam with a veterinarian. The doctor may recommend testing for ringworm. I. The mean time, I recommend to gently cleanse the area if possible with a medicated wipe that is safe for pets. Do this once a day. Try not to get any liquid in the ears or eyes. Wash your hands after handling the cats and watch for any lesions on yourself. See a human doctor if you see anything suspicious. Apply a reputable flea product to the cats such as Revolution to eliminate fleas as a cause. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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