Your cat’s middle ear or back of his throat can develop benign growths known as ear polyps. These growths are very rare in felines. When they do occur, they can affect cats of any age or sex. However, cats no older than four years old are usually affected. This article will discuss cat ear polyps.
Causes
You may be wondering what causes these growths in your cat. Although there are a few possible reasons, vets don’t know an exact cause. Some speculate that they form as the result of inflammation from bacteria or fungi. It’s also possible that these growths can be due to calicivirus in cats.
Signs
Ear polyps in cats causes some of the same symptoms brought on by an ear infection. One of the most common signs is shaking and scratching his head frequently. The ear may also produce a thick discharge. Cats may also experience loss of coordination that will prevent them from walking in a straight line. Other cats experience trouble breathing and swallowing.
Diagnosis
If not detected in time, ear polyps can severely damage the ear drum. A special instrument called an otoscope allows the vet to see clearly inside your cat’s ears and mouth. Sometimes, a head x-ray may be necessary to detect the growth. If one is found, a biopsy will be done to determine if its cancerous or benign.
Treatment
If your cat develops polyps, he will likely need to undergo surgery. Surgery comes in two different forms. A non-invasive procedure cuts the stalk of the polyp then removes it. However, this method has one main fault. The polyp will likely recur in a few months since its base wasn’t cut.
There is also an invasive procedure. So the polyp won’t recur in a few months, its base will also be removed during this surgery. The bone that surrounds the inner ear will have to be removed beforehand to allow access to the base. Cats that undergo this form of surgery usually have no problems with polyps in the future.
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