There are many different types of ear lumps in cats. Lumps can develop on the flap of the ear or inside the canal. Ear lumps can be benign or malignant (can spread). Malignant ear canal tumours are more common in cats compared to dogs, but they are still relatively uncommon. Growths inside the ear canal may be difficult to treat or require referral to a specialist.

Ear lumps can arise from various parts of the ear, such as the skin, the glands that produce oil and wax, and the underlying tissues. Chronic ear inflammation is believed to increase the likelihood of ear canal growths in cats. Any age of cat can be affected, though malignant ear canal growths tend to be more common in middle-aged to older cats.

What to do if your cat has an ear lump

If you notice a swelling or new lump on your cat's ear, it's important to consult a vet as soon as possible. Ear lumps can cause discomfort and may result in self-trauma.

In the meantime:

• Try to prevent your cat from rubbing and scratching the ear.

• Monitor the size and shape of the lump daily.

• If it’s safe to do so, look inside the ear to check for any discharge, redness or growths.

Our Joii vets are available 24 hours a day; call us now if you have any concerns.

The most common causes of ear lumps in cats

Lumps on the ear flap or pinna:

• Aural haematoma

• Ticks

• Abscesses

• Scabs: from autoimmune disorders, insect bites, nutrient deficiencies or allergies

• Mast cell tumour

• Folded ear tips

• Squamous cell carcinoma

Lumps on the inside the ear canal:

• Benign growths from the glands: ceruminous (wax) or sebaceous (oil) gland adenoma

• Inflammatory polyp

• Foreign body, such as grass seeds

• Squamous cell carcinomas

When to worry about ear lumps in cats

An emergency appointment is recommended if your cat:

• Develops a head tilt or problems with coordination

• Is in severe pain with their ear problem

• Develops an ear lump that is growing quickly

A physical examination will be needed if your cat:

• Develops a growth or swelling on their ear

• Is constantly shaking their head

• Develops any pus or blood in the ear canal

Our Joii vets are available for advice 24 hours a day. Call us now if you have any concerns.

Tips on how to prevent ear lumps in cats

While ear lumps are not always preventable, there are some ways to help reduce the risk.

• Aural hematomas can result from frequent head-shaking. Prompt and proper treatment of ear infections or irritations can help prevent their occurrence.

• Keeping your cat up to date with parasite preventatives can prevent ear mites, mange and ticks.

• Ensuring your cat is provided with a well-balanced diet tailored to their age and activity level can help prevent nutrient deficiencies. Special diets are available for cats with allergies, such as Hills Prescription Diet d/d or z/d.

• Prolonged inflammation in the ear canal can potentially result in the formation of growths. Proper management of ear infections and addressing underlying allergies can help reduce this risk.

How do you know if your cat has an ear lump?

Lumps may be visible on the ear flap or just inside the ear canal. However, some can be deeper in the canal and may not be visible without a special instrument. Benign lumps often appear as small bumps that stay the same size. Whereas malignant lumps can grow quickly, break open and bleed, resulting in severe pain.

Common signs associated with ear lumps include:

• Frequent head-shaking

• Scratching or rubbing the ears

• Build up of discharge (wax, pus or blood)

• Red, inflamed ear canals

• Smelly ears

Lumps within the ear canal typically impact only one ear, while infections, nutrient deficiencies, and autoimmune disorders tend to affect both ears. Noticing these symptoms solely in one ear could suggest the presence of a growth within the ear canal.

How to help at home if your cat has an ear lump

Most cases of ear lumps will need immediate veterinary attention. Depending on the cause, it may be recommended to:

• Clean your cat's ears regularly with a vet-recommended product.

• Check your cat's ears regularly for any abnormalities, such as pus or blood discharge.

• Make sure to give any prescribed medication as advised by your vet. If you are struggling, let them know; there may be alternatives.

Vet treatment for ear lumps in cats

The diagnosis and treatment of ear lumps can be tricky. External lumps and swellings are easier to manage, whereas lumps in the canal are more difficult.

Diagnosis may involve:

• A thorough examination of the ear canal under anaesthesia

• FNA or biopsy of lumps

• CT or MRI scan of head and neck for malignant lumps

• Staging (checking for spread) may be required for malignant lumps. This can involve blood tests, x-rays and ultrasounds.

Treatment may involve:

• Drainage of abscess or haematoma

• Surgical removal of lumps: this can be extensive for deep or malignant lumps

• Radiation therapy or chemotherapy

• Medication: pain relief, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories.

Are some cats more at risk of ear lumps than others?

• Age: Polyps are more common in cats under 5 years old. Benign and malignant tumours are more common in cats that are middle-aged and older.

• Persistent inflammation of the ear canal increases the likelihood of growths forming in cats. So, cats with chronic ear infections and underlying allergies may face a bigger risk of developing ear canal tumours.