Ear Cleaning Cats and Dogs
Why is it important?
It is important to clean out any debris and/or wax to prevent infections and to ensure the ear is clean to administer medication if needed.
Some ear cleaners have antibacterial or anti-fungal ingredients to help prevent ear infections.
Certain cleaners are better at removing wax build-up.
Your veterinarian will always guide you to use an ear cleaner that is best for your pet.
If your pet has an ear infection and requires medication to be applied to the ears, clean the ears first and then apply the medication.
Never use cotton tip applicators.
What do I need to clean my pet’s ears?
Recommended ear cleaner.
Cotton pads.
Do all dogs and cats need to have their ears cleaned?
It is recommended to clean your pet’s ears every 1-2 weeks.
In extreme cases, your veterinarian might suggest more frequent cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide for Ear Cleaning
Gently hold the ear flap (pinna) up vertically to expose and straighten out your pet’s ear canal.
With your free hand, squeeze some ear-cleaning solution into the ear, some of the cleaner spills out of the ear canal.
Continue to hold the ear flap up and gently massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds with the other hand. Massaging the base of the ear breaks up the wax in the ear canal and a squishing sound can be heard.
Wipe away the wax from the inner part of the ear flap and the upper ear canal using a cotton pad.
Allow your pet to shake its head, allowing any remaining ear-cleaning solution and debris from the ear canal to move to the outer opening of the ear, this can be wiped with a cotton pad.
If the tip of the bottle touches your pet’s ear, wipe the tip off with a clean cotton pad, with some surgical spirit to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast.
Never use a cotton-tipped applicator
Repeat the cleaning procedure as often as is recommended by your veterinarian.
Step-by-Step Guide for Medication Application
Medication can often be applied immediately after cleaning your dog’s ears.
Your veterinarian will provide further information about how often the medication is to be applied.
Gently hold the ear flap (pinna) up vertically to expose and straighten out your pet’s ear canal.
Administer the medication that your veterinarian has prescribed.
Continue to hold the ear flap up and gently massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds with the other hand. Massaging the base of the ear breaks up the wax in the ear canal and a squishing sound can be heard.
If the inner part of the ear flap is involved in the infection, place the prescribed amount of medication on the infected part of the ear flap. Spread the medication around with your finger while wearing a glove.
If the tip of the bottle touches your dog’s ear, wipe the tip off with a clean cotton pad, with some surgical spirit to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast.
If in doubt, always contact your veterinarian.