What is a common sign of inner ear infection in cats?

Loss of balance is a common sign of an inner ear infection in cats due to the role the inner ear plays in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. The inner ear contains structures called the vestibular system, which helps the animal understand its position in space. When there is an infection, it can disrupt the normal functioning of this system, leading to symptoms such as loss of balance, dizziness, or even a head tilt. Cats may appear wobbly or unsteady when walking, may struggle to coordinate their movements, or may have difficulty standing upright, all of which are indicative of vestibular dysfunction.

While other symptoms like fever, excessive barking, and unresponsive behavior can occur in various health conditions or situations, they are not specific to inner ear infections. Fever may indicate systemic infection or inflammation, excessive barking is primarily associated with canine behavior rather than feline, and unresponsive behavior could relate to numerous neurological issues or severe illness without being specific to ear problems. Thus, loss of balance is the most direct and telling sign of an inner ear infection in cats, highlighting the importance of the vestibular system's integrity for normal functioning.