If you love your cat and take every opportunity to cuddle it, you might also be an observer. Observant owners can spot when something isn’t right or unusual.
Maybe your cat is tearing up too much or seems depressed. Our sick cat is the one that bothers us the most. Hot ears are a less common, but valid observation that we make.
Sometimes it feels like a cat’s ears have become unusually hot. Yes, it can happen. But the reasons may not be as obvious as you think. It’s not something to be concerned about in some cases. You might want to look at it more closely in other cases. Why are my cat’s ears so hot?
It doesn’t matter what the reason is, it is important to understand what’s going on. These are some of the reasons your cat might be having hot ears.
What is the reason my cat’s ears are so hot? Six Possible Reasons
Let’s begin by answering the urgent question. Are hot ears a sign that your cat is sick or suffering from something more serious? Not necessarily. Hot ears are a sign of regular body function, but cats are generally very good at taking care of themselves. Let’s first look at the above.
Best of the Discerning Cat
1. Cats have a higher body temperature in general
It is important to know that a cat’s body temperature is higher than a human’s. Yes, the cat’s fluff is usually a few degrees warmer than a human’s.
The normal body temperature of a cat is between 101.0 and 102.5degF. Healthy humans are around 98.6 degrees F. You can also use a pet thermometer to check the temperature of your cat.
This could explain why your cat will always seek out areas that have lots of sunlight. They enjoy soaking up the sun. They prefer to be in cool, shaded areas. Your cat will be less likely to spend too much time outside during rainy days. Except if they are Maine Coons who are strange that way.
2. The Ears Help to Regulate the Temperature
The ears are a key part of a cat’s incredible body heat management system. These ears are part of a complex control system, which also includes the tail and paws. This amazing system of regulation ensures that their core temperature doesn’t change. This is especially interesting because cats rarely sweat beyond their paw pads.
The vein system in the ears is flexible and can expand or contract depending on what is needed. Cats’ ears are part of the body system that releases heat. On a hot day, a cat’s ears can feel warmer.
The same goes for cats who live in cold climates. Their ears might feel even colder because they are trying to conserve heat.
3. Your cat may have a fever
Your cat may have a fever. This is not the only sign. If a cat feels hot to the touch (more than 103 degrees F) for more than two days, it is likely to have a fever.
If you suspect that you have a fever, there are other signs you should look for:
- Appetite loss
- Shivering or shaking
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Low energy
- Fearful or hiding behavior
- Depression
- Grooming is not done enough
- Reduced water intake
Feel the temperature under the arms or in the cat’s stomach. It is best to check the temperature of your cat as described above. If the temperature is extremely high, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
4. Allergies may be a problem for your cat
As with humans, allergies can also affect cats. Allergy reactions can cause body reactions such as a rise of temperature. This could be a sign that the ears are warming up in cats. These are the most common allergy triggers:
Dust
It can be very difficult to eliminate dust from your home. A vet may be able to prescribe medication to manage the condition.
Grass
An allergy to grass can cause skin irritation and membrane damage.
Pollen
The pollen reaction in cats could be causing them to sneeze. Sometimes, the body may react to an increase in temperature.
Mold
Your cat will love to live in damp areas, as mold can easily get into damp places. You can try to get rid of mold from your home or prevent your cat from getting into it.
Detergents
Some detergents cause bad reactions. You can try switching detergents and other cleaning products if you suspect that this is happening.
Foods
It can be difficult to determine whether your cat is allergic to food. It is best to stick with formulated cat food and not human food. If you suspect that there is a problem with your food, it may be possible to change the food.
Cats can develop food allergies to dairy-related products, meat, chicken, and fish. Although allergies can occur at any age, they must be present in cats who have been exposed to the food.
Food allergies can manifest as itching, infection, and excessive grooming. It can be difficult to treat and eliminate a food allergy. However, it is possible with a strict food trial period during which all allergens are eliminated from the diet.
Cigarette Smoke
According to the doctor general, smoking is harmful to your health. However, it can be harmful to your cat. Some cats can become allergic to cigarette smoke.
Parfum
If you are a perfume lover, your cat may experience a reaction to your perfume.
Lotions
Your cat may also react to lotions you apply to its skin.
Fleas
As common as fleas are in certain environments, they can cause skin reactions.
All of these can lead to a range of temperature or fever levels, which will reflect in the ears of your cat. You can manage some with the help of a veterinarian or prescription. A change in the environment might be a good option.
5. They might have an ear infection
Cat ear infections are not as common as in dogs. Ear infections are not always obvious by hot ears. You may notice that your cat is experiencing discomfort in its ears.
Ear infections should not be taken lightly. Untreated ear infections can lead to additional complications, which could compromise hearing and even lead to a life-threatening condition.
You may also notice other signs of an ear infection. These are the signs to look out for:
- Unusual head tilting
- Unusual head shaking
- Paying attention to the ears
- Balance is lacking
- Comfortable chewing or eating
6. Ear Mites
Ear mites are a common problem, particularly in older cats and kittens. The mites can cause inflammation of the ears and small black spots inside the ears.
These mites are likely to cause itching. Your cat will scratch and rub its ears incessantly. As a result, the ears may get hotter or more damaged. Ear mites can be very harmful.
Ear mites can be very irritating, and not just for your cat. They can be contagious and can spread from pet to pet. They can only be completely cured by veterinarian-prescribed medication. Although home remedies are sometimes suggested by some owners, they are not recommended.
Problem is, mites can hide in places where normal household products can’t reach. Eggs are especially hardy and resistant. Secondary infections can be caused by mites if they aren’t treated.
Final thoughts on Why Your Cat has Hot Ears
Most likely, your cat’s ears are just hot as it is regulating its body temperature. There’s nothing to be concerned about if your cat behaves otherwise than normal and is healthy.
While this can be considered normal, it is important to pay attention to any additional symptoms such as those mentioned above. Fevers and infections should never be ignored as they can lead to further complications.
Many “hot ear conditions”, even if they are not common, can be easily treated. Enjoy the heat, especially on cold nights.
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