Sphynx parents, did you know that ear infections are a serious health risk for our wrinkly friends? These hairless cats have uniquely shaped ears and minimal fur to protect the canal, which can make them more prone to wax buildup, yeast overgrowth, and bacterial infections.

Recognizing early signs of infection is key. Keep an eye out for:

• Redness or swelling in the ear
• Strong odor or foul smell
• Thick yellow or green discharge
• Crusty buildup near the ear opening

Behavioral changes can also be warning signs. If your cat is shaking their head, pawing or rubbing their ears, tilting their head, hiding, acting off-balance, or seems unusually tired, it’s time to act. Left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss and, in rare cases, severe complications if bacteria spread.

Why Diet Matters for Ear Health

Many Sphynx ear infections are aggravated by diet. Processed foods, even canned and dry options, can contribute to inflammation and wax buildup in the ear canal. Feeding a fresh, high-quality diet helps reduce the risk of chronic yeast and bacterial growth, supporting your cat’s holistic health from the inside out.

If you’re wondering which foods are best for your pet, I’ve spent over a decade as a certified pet nutritionist studying exactly what cats need for optimal health.

Our Homemade Food Course teaches you how to:

• Prepare balanced, nutritionally complete meals in as little as 15 minutes per week
• Use whole food ingredients like chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, and beef with vegetables to create healthy ratios of protein and greens
• Incorporate essential supplements to ensure every meal meets your pet’s dietary needs (with options including or excluding bone)

A diet rich in fresh, whole ingredients can reduce inflammation, improve immune function, and significantly lower the chance of recurring ear infections.

Safe, Effective Ear Care Products

Even with a perfect diet, some Sphynx cats require regular ear cleaning to manage chronic wax and yeast buildup. That’s where ReNewedPet® ear care products come in:

RenewedPet® Ear Cleaning Drops

These all-natural drops are formulated with organic ingredients to remove and dry wax buildup and debris. Unlike other products that only remove wax temporarily, these drops reduce chronic yeast buildup, helping prevent re-depositing of debris within days.

RenewedPet® Ear Care Kit

For a more comprehensive routine, the Ear Care Kit includes everything you need to safely clean, dry, and maintain your Sphynx’s delicate ears. Regular use supports long-term ear health and comfort.

The Bottom Line

Sphynx cats are prone to ear infections, but with early detection, proper diet, and consistent ear care, you can keep your cat’s ears healthy and comfortable.

• Watch for redness, discharge, odor, or behavioral changes
• Feed a fresh, high-protein, low-processed diet
• Use safe, organic ear cleaning products
• Address issues early with your veterinarian

Combining these steps gives your Sphynx the best chance at long-term ear health, comfort, and overall wellness.

With Love,

April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H.

(aka) PetCoach-April

Q&A

1. Why are Sphynx cats more prone to ear infections?

Because hairless cats lack fur around the ear canal and have more natural oil production, debris and wax accumulate faster. Without regular cleaning and proper diet, yeast and bacteria can quickly overgrow, leading to infection.

2. What are the early signs of an ear infection in a Sphynx cat?

Redness, swelling, strong odor, yellow or green discharge, crusty buildup, head shaking, pawing at the ears, increased sensitivity, and behavioral changes such as tilting the head or acting off-balance are common early indicators.

3. Can diet help prevent ear infections in cats?

Yes. Fresh, high-quality diets reduce inflammation and help balance yeast levels in the body. Highly processed foods like dry kibble and many canned diets can contribute to excessive wax production and chronic ear debris.

4. How often should I clean my Sphynx cat’s ears?

Most Sphynx cats need ear cleaning weekly, though some may require it more often depending on their individual wax production. Using safe, all-natural cleaners is important to prevent irritation or further imbalance.

5. What products are safest for cleaning Sphynx cat ears?

ReNewedPet’s Ear Cleaning Drops and Ear Cleaning Kit are formulated with organic, non-irritating ingredients that not only remove wax but also help reduce chronic yeast buildup, something many generic cleaners fail to address.