feline ear irritations

Question
Could you give me a simple remedy for my cats ear irritations.  They are strarting to scratch at them and shake their heads alot.  I have seen it before in others.  It hasn't gotten that bad yet but I would like to catch it in the early stage by using an ointment. If I need to get a precription at the vet thats ok.  But if there is anything that I could use without a diagnosis I would appreciate it.  Its probably a fungus or mites.  A general medication for ears that I could use may help prevent it from getting worse and having to go to the vet. Thanks.David

Answer
David,

Go to the vet. I cannot tell you how many people make a worse mess out of ears than anything.  MANY ear medications that are OTC for cats are ototoxic(meaning you will rupture the ear drum).

It is better to have a FULL diagnosis from the vet. Have them run an ear cytology to find out what it is. Your cat can also have an underlying food allergy that is causing this.

Going to the vet is not worse, it is SMART.