What’s Normal And What’s Not Normal When It Comes To Your Sphynx Cat’s Ears
When it comes to owning a Sphynx cat, one thing you’ll find out is that wax buildup is normal. However, knowing what’s normal and what’s not normal when it comes to your hairless cat’s ears is important. This way, you know when to take action and get your cat the treatment they need. Below, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of normal ear buildup, as well as what to look for that could indicate inflammation or infection. Let’s begin!
Normal Ear Buildup
It’s normal for Sphynx cats to get ear buildup. All cat breeds produce natural oils, as this protects their skin and keeps it moisturized. However, fur typically soaks up the oil, but since Sphynx cats don’t have hair, the oil sits on top of their skin. One of the most common areas for the oil to travel is in their ear canals. When oil and normal earwax are combined, they create a dark, thick wax. Some attributes of normal buildup include:
Signs Of An Infection
There are some signs you should be aware of, so you know if there’s something more going on with your cat’s ears. Signs to keep an eye out for that could indicate that your Sphynx might have an ear infection include:
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Ear redness.
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Heat in or around their ear.
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Swelling.
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A strong odor that’s coming from their ear.
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Any kind of ear discharge.
Product Recommendations And Resources
The saying, “You are what you eat,” is true. When your cats’ diet is full of carbs and highly processed foods, it can affect their inflammation, yeast, and oil levels throughout their body. It can also lead to chronic ear buildup. By switching to a raw and fresh diet, you can lower chronic buildup and improve skin and ear health. Check out these resources to learn more about how you can support your hairless baby on a healthy and fresh food journey: Fresh Food Recommendations Guide and Homemade Food Guide.
One of the best ways to keep your cat’s ears clean and well-maintained is with a high-quality and natural ear cleaner. You’ll have the choice between the single bottle ear cleaner and the ear cleaner kit with cap. The cap will protect your cat's ears during baths or guard your clothing and furniture after you use the ear cleaner. This way, if they shake their heads after applying the cleaner, the cap will catch it and not your clothing.
In Conclusion
In the end, there’s a clear difference between normal ear buildup and an infection. Knowing the differences and how to treat them will keep their ears (and your cat in general) clean and healthy!
With Love,
April Arguin A.S., C.P.N., M.P.H.
(aka) PetCoach-April
