Did you ever feel that your cat's ears are warmer than usual? Although it is common for a cat's ears to feel warm, it can also indicate an underlying health problem. Today, our Los Angeles County veterinarians will explain some of the reasons why your cat's ears may be warm.
Are my cat's ears supposed to be warm?
There are six main reasons for a cat's ears being warm.
- For no reason at all
- Responding to the weather
- Allergies
- Fever
- Ear Mites
- Ear Infection
Below, we'll cover each of these six reasons in detail.
1. No Particular Reason
It's important to know that the normal body temperature of a cat is slightly higher than a human's. While the normal body temperature of humans is around 98.6°F, cats have a normal temperature between 101°F and 102.5°F.
As a result, it's normal for a cat's ears to feel slightly warm. If your cat behaves normally, there's no need to be concerned.
2. Hot Weather
If you've noticed your cat's ears getting warmer as the temperature rises, that's no coincidence. In fact, it's just your cat regulating their body temperature. To help keep them from overheating, blood flow increases to the ears, paws, and nose so they can release excess heat more easily.
However, extreme heat is still very dangerous to cats. Ensure you're keeping your cat cool by brushing them daily, providing them with a shaded spot, and ensuring they have plenty of water.
3. Allergies
Cats can experience allergies just like humans. In fact, cat allergies are one of the most common medical issues. Allergies can be caused by seasonal irritants such as pollen and grass, insects, or even food.
Symptoms of allergies in cats can include bloating, diarrhea, sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes, excessive licking, and hot ears. If you suspect your cat may have allergies, bring them to our Los Angeles County office for allergy testing.
Our team can perform tests to identify the cause of your cat's allergic reaction and provide effective solutions.
4. Fever Caused by Illness
If your cat's ears are hot, it could be due to a fever. If a fever is the cause, you should also notice other symptoms of illness, such as:
- Warm belly
- Hiding or not wanting to play
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
If you do suspect your cat has a fever. It's usually a good idea to call your vet. Although you could use a rectal thermometer to test your cat yourself, you would have to see the vet if your cat has a fever.
5. Ear Mites
Ear mites are a common problem for cats. These tiny, highly contagious parasites live in the ear canals and feed on the wax and oils inside, causing inflammation and potentially leading to secondary infections.
If left untreated, ear mites can spread to other pets in the household as well as humans. Therefore, seeking medical attention from a vet is crucial to diagnose and treat the infestation properly.
Over-the-counter remedies may not be effective, so it's important to get professional help. Remember, ear mites can cause severe itching and discomfort for your cat, so don't hesitate to take action and bring them the necessary treatment.
6. Ear Infection
While ear mites can cause infections, they are not the only source. Other causes of cat ear infections include dirty, overly waxy ears, food allergies, environmental allergies, trauma such as a scratch, or something caught in the ear. In addition to warm ears, you may also notice:
- A loss of balance
- Itching & head shaking
- A foul odor in the ear
- Red, inflamed ears
- Abundant ear wax
- Rubbing ears on the floor or furniture
Ear infections in cats can be painful and lead to hearing loss. If you notice any symptoms, it's important to take your cat to the vet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.