Treating Ear Polyps in Cats: The Role of Surgery and Care

Understanding Feline Ear Polyps

Feline ear polyps are non-cancerous growths that typically originate in the middle ear or the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. While the exact cause of these polyps is unknown, chronic inflammation or viral infections are suspected to play a role. Younger cats, particularly those under two years old, are more frequently affected, although polyps can occur in cats of any age.

The location and size of the polyp will determine the specific symptoms a cat experiences. In some cases, the polyp may extend into the external ear canal, while in others, it may grow towards the nasopharynx (the back of the nasal cavity). This difference in growth direction influences the clinical signs.

Common symptoms include:

• Head shaking or tilting
• Ear discharge (often brown or black)
• Pawing at the ear
• Decreased hearing or hearing loss
• Upper respiratory signs (sneezing, nasal discharge)
• Difficulty breathing (if the polyp extends into the nasopharynx)
• Horner’s syndrome (drooping eyelid, constricted pupil, sunken eye) – less common

Diagnosis of Ear Polyps

A veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, including an otoscopic examination of the ear canal, to diagnose ear polyps. An otoscope allows visualization of the ear canal and eardrum, which can reveal the presence of a polyp.

However, advanced imaging techniques may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis and to assess the extent of the polyp. These can include:

• Radiography (X-rays): Can help visualize the bulla (the bony chamber of the middle ear).
• Computed Tomography (CT scan): Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the head, allowing for accurate assessment of the polyp’s size, location, and extent.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Offers excellent soft tissue detail and can be useful in differentiating polyps from other types of masses.

In some cases, a biopsy of the polyp may be taken during surgery to confirm that it is benign and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgery is the most effective treatment for ear polyps in cats. The goal of surgery is to completely remove the polyp while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Several surgical approaches are available, and the best option depends on the polyp’s location and extent.

Traction-Avulsion

Traction-avulsion is a common surgical technique where the veterinarian uses forceps to grasp the polyp and gently pull it out. This method is most suitable for polyps that are easily accessible in the external ear canal. However, it carries a higher risk of recurrence because it’s difficult to remove the entire polyp, including its base, with this technique.

Ventral Bulla Osteotomy (VBO)

Ventral bulla osteotomy is a more invasive surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the ventral (bottom) aspect of the bulla to access the middle ear. This allows the veterinarian to thoroughly remove the polyp and any infected tissue from the middle ear cavity. VBO significantly reduces the risk of polyp recurrence compared to traction-avulsion.

This procedure is recommended for polyps that originate in the middle ear or extend into the nasopharynx. It’s a more complex surgery and requires a skilled and experienced veterinary surgeon.

Lateral Ear Canal Resection and Ablation (TECA) with Bulla Osteotomy

In severe cases, where the ear canal is severely damaged or chronically infected, a total ear canal ablation (TECA) with bulla osteotomy may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the entire ear canal and cleaning out the middle ear. TECA is a more radical surgery but can provide relief from chronic pain and infection.

Potential Risks and Complications of Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with ear polyp surgery in cats. These can include:

• Hemorrhage: Bleeding during or after surgery.
• Infection: Post-operative infection at the surgical site.
• Horner’s syndrome: Damage to the sympathetic nerves can cause Horner’s syndrome (drooping eyelid, constricted pupil, sunken eye).
• Facial nerve paralysis: Damage to the facial nerve can cause temporary or permanent facial paralysis.
• Vestibular dysfunction: Damage to the inner ear can cause balance problems, head tilting, and nystagmus (involuntary eye movements).
• Polyp recurrence: Even with VBO, there is a risk of the polyp recurring.

The risk of complications varies depending on the surgical technique used and the individual cat’s health. It’s important to discuss these risks with your veterinarian before proceeding with surgery.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Proper post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery after ear polyp surgery. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on the surgical procedure performed and your cat’s individual needs.

General post-operative care guidelines include:

• Administering pain medication as prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Administering antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian to prevent infection.
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry.
• Preventing your cat from scratching or rubbing the surgical site (an Elizabethan collar may be necessary).
• Monitoring for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Attending follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to monitor healing and check for any complications.

The recovery period can vary depending on the surgical technique used. Cats undergoing VBO may require a longer recovery period than those undergoing traction-avulsion.

Preventing Ear Polyps in Cats

Since the exact cause of ear polyps is unknown, there is no guaranteed way to prevent them. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

• Regular ear cleaning: Regularly cleaning your cat’s ears can help prevent ear infections, which may contribute to polyp formation. Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution.
• Prompt treatment of ear infections: If your cat develops an ear infection, seek veterinary treatment promptly to prevent it from becoming chronic.
• Maintaining a healthy immune system: A healthy immune system can help your cat fight off infections that may contribute to polyp formation. Feed your cat a high-quality diet and ensure they receive regular veterinary care.