Devon Rex Ear Infections: Signs, Causes and Ear Care

With saucer-sized ears perched low on the sides of a pixie face, the Devon Rex looks a bit like a cartoon come to life. Owners love the breed for its mischief and its habit of riding on shoulders. Those famous ears, though, come with a practical side: they tend to be waxy, and the thin curly coat does little to keep them clean.

If you have found brown gunk inside your Devon's ears and wondered whether it is normal, this page is for you. We explain how the breed's ears are built, the clues that point to an ear problem, the causes vets consider, and a routine that respects a cat who would rather be playing.

How Devon Rex ears differ from other cats

The Devon Rex came from a curly-coated cat found in Devon, England, and its look is defined by a recessive gene for a soft, wavy coat. The ears are the other half of its signature.

• Huge, low-set ears. Devon ears are very large, with a wide base that sits low on the side of the head. That broad bowl collects dust and skin oil at the entrance.
• Thin, sparse hair. The curly coat is short and fine, and some Devons are almost bare on the ears, chest and belly. Less hair means less protection at the ear opening.
• Greasy skin and waxy ears. Like other rex breeds, Devons often produce oily skin and brown, sticky ear wax that builds up between cleanings.
• Curly hairs and whiskers that break. Brittle, kinked hairs can shed into the ear bowl and mix with wax.
• A busy, social lifestyle. Devons climb, explore and snuggle with other pets, which brings more contact with dust and, in multi-pet homes, possible exposure to parasites.

The Cornish Rex is often confused with the Devon, but it is a separate breed with a different curl gene and higher-set ears. The completely hairless Sphynx sits at the far end of the same spectrum.

Clues your Devon's ears are bothering it

Devons are expressive cats, and many will tell you when something is wrong. Others hide it. Keep an eye out for:

• Frequent head shaking or ears flicking more than usual
• Scratching at the ears, sometimes with a back paw caught in the curl of the ear
• A sudden increase in brown wax, or wax that looks dry and gritty
• A strong or unpleasant smell when you hold the cat close
• Pink, red or swollen skin in the ear bowl
• Avoiding head rubs, or a quieter, less playful mood
• Rubbing one ear along the floor or your shoulder

What tends to cause Devon Rex ear problems

Wax that is left too long. Oily wax sitting in a warm canal is a common starting point for irritation.

Yeast. Greasy skin makes yeast overgrowth more likely in rex cats. Your vet can confirm it from an ear sample.

Bacterial infection. This often follows inflammation, scratching or another underlying problem.

Ear mites. In cats, mites are one of the classic reasons for itchy ears, especially in kittens or households where cats share space with other animals. Mite debris looks dark and crumbly, much like heavy wax, so a vet exam is needed to tell them apart. For general background, see how to keep your cat away from ear mites.

Allergies and skin sensitivity. Sparse coats give little protection, and allergic cats often show itchy ears first.

Polyps. Inflammatory polyps are noncancerous growths seen mainly in young cats. They can cause discharge, head shaking or balance problems and are diagnosed by a vet.

Red flags that call for a vet visit

Do not try to clean your way through these. Book an exam if your Devon shows:

• Pain or crying out when the ear is handled
• A tilted head, wobbling or loss of balance
• A droopy eyelid or a visible third eyelid on one side
• An ear flap that is swollen, bleeding or feels like a water balloon (possible aural hematoma)
• Smelly discharge
• Something growing or bulging in the ear canal
• Problems that are not settling within a few days

Home remedies such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol or homemade oil drops are best avoided. They can sting and may cause real harm if the eardrum is not intact. Keep cotton swabs out of the canal. For a broader overview, read about recognizing ear infections in cats.

A quick, play-friendly routine for Devons

Most Devons do well with an ear check every few days and a cleaning about once a week, or whenever you see wax collecting in the bowl. Cats prone to heavy wax may need more frequent attention, so ask your vet what suits yours.

1. Pick a sleepy moment. A Devon after a meal or a long play session is far more cooperative than one ready to climb the curtains.
2. Use a towel wrap if needed. A loose "burrito" in a soft towel keeps paws out of the way.
3. Inspect first. Redness, swelling, blood or a strong smell mean you should stop and phone your vet.
4. Clear the ear bowl. Wipe away visible wax and debris with a cotton ball or tissue.
5. Fill the canal slowly. Use a cat ear cleaner. If your cat fidgets, squeeze it in from a soaked cotton ball.
6. Massage the base. Work gently for 60 to 90 seconds.
7. Let it shake. Step back while your Devon shakes its head.
8. Dry and praise. Pat the outer ear dry with a cotton pad and give a treat or a quick game.

Skin note: Because Devons have oily skin, many owners also wipe or bathe them occasionally. Do the ears last so loosened oil does not drip back in.

About EcoEars Cat: EcoEars Cat is a botanical cat ear cleaner with no antibiotics or steroids, made in the USA. As directed on the label, wipe away visible debris, slowly fill the ear canal, massage the base of the ear for 60 to 90 seconds, let your cat shake its head and dry the outer ear. Use it twice daily for 10 days in a row, then weekly or as needed. It is for cats only and should not be used on broken skin, if there is blood, or if the eardrum may be damaged.

Devon Rex ear FAQ

Why are my Devon's ears always brown inside?

A light layer of brown wax is common in this breed because of its oily skin and sparse hair. A big change in amount, color or smell is worth a vet check.

Are Devon Rex ears more fragile because they are so big?

The ears are large and thin, so handle them gently and never pull on the flap. Large ears are also easier to inspect, which helps you catch changes early.

Can my Devon share ear problems with my other pets?

Ear mites can pass between animals that live together. If one pet is diagnosed, ask your vet whether the others should be checked too.

How do I clean the ears of a Devon kitten?

Start with gentle handling and short, positive sessions. Ask your vet before using any cleaner on a young kitten, and get any dark debris checked, since mites are common in kittens.