If your cat frequently shakes her head or scratches her ears compulsively, she may have a feline ear infection. Though not as common in cats as in dogs (dogs with floppy ears are particularly likely to get ear infections), ear infections are still a persistent problem, especially among Persian cats.

Unlike the case with humans (where ear infections usually start from within) ear infections in dogs and cats are usually caused by external factors: water, allergens, or foreign bodies like seeds in the ear. Another common cause is parasitic insects, particularly ear mites.

When infected, your cat's ears may become inflamed and may even discharge a black or yellowish fluid. There may also be a foul odor. Ear infections can be irritating and painful; your cat may show her discomfort by obsessively shaking her head, scratching her ears, or rubbing them against furniture... or your leg!

Common symptoms of cat ear infection:

• Frequent scratching of ears and shaking of head
• Possible mewling, obvious discomfort
• Dark-colored debris in ear (similar to fine coffee grounds), a sign of ear mites
• In extreme cases, a foul-smelling, pus-filled yellowish or dark discharge