Ear Problems

• 1). You can tell when a cat has ear problems when it continually shakes its head or scratches at its ears. There are a number of things that will cause these reactions. One common cause of scratchy ears is ear mites. Ear mites show up as black "dirt" and are visible in the ear canal. They can sometimes cause skin irritation and redness when left unchecked. Ear mites also can be a secondary problem to a more serious ear problem, such as an ear infection.
  
  Since ear mites sometimes look like a dirty ear, clean the ear first with an ear cleansing solution made specifically for pets (you can purchase this through a vet or at a pet store). Place a few drops of the solution on a cotton ball and clean each ear canal. Do not pour the solution in the ear. Check the ears again the very next day and if they still appear "dirty," you can assume it is ear mites. You should take the cat to the vet and have the ears checked and treated.
  
  
• 2). You should consult a vet right away if you find drainage or discoloration in the ear canal as this may indicate an ear infection. Ear infections should not be left untreated as they can cause more serious inner ear infections and even deafness. Inner ear infections can cause a cat to be unbalanced and, in severe cases, cause paralysis to the side of the face that is infected.
  
  
• 3). Occasionally, in spite of any diagnosis or solution, the cat will continue to shake its head periodically. If mites and ear infection have been ruled out, chances are good that the cat may have an allergy. In this case, there is allergy medicine available through a vet. However, if the shaking is not bad, cleaning the ears with the cleansing solution on a weekly basis can help tremendously.
  
  

Vomiting Problems

• 1). When a cat vomits, observe the cat's behavior and determine if the cat is playful or lethargic. If the cat plays with a ball of yarn and acts frisky, it was probably just a hairball, which is a normal function of a cat, particularly a long-haired one. If the cat vomits frequently, it may have a problem with the cat food you are using, or it could have an allergy. If the problem continues, consult a vet.
  
  
• 2). If the cat acts weak or shows signs of lethargy, it could have a viral or bacterial infection, or allergies. Look at the cat's nose and check for discharge. Listen to the chest for signs of wheezing. If any of these signs are present, consult a vet.
  
  
• 3). Diabetic cats have a unique set of problems. Diabetes may be indicated if you find your cat meandering and showing signs of weakness such as not being able to stand or walk (and if it does not have a runny nose and is not wheezing). Getting the cat to the vet as quickly as possible can prevent diabetic shock, as diabetes in cats can be diagnosed and treated.