When And How Do I Clean My Cat's Ears?

PetSmart - Banfield, The Pet Hospital®

Most cats are such good self-groomers that they don't need you to clean their ears. But, if your cat is frequently outdoors or you notice a build-up of wax, dirt or other debris, a cleaning is in order. Ear cleaning starts with good general grooming. First, remove excess, dirty, or matted hair from around the ear canal and the ear flap. In some cases, excess hair may need to be gently removed from inside the ear canal. This must be done carefully to avoid canal damage and minimize discomfort. Consider having a PetSmart PetStylist remove the hair if needed.

Next, choose a mild ear cleaner formulated especially for pets. Avoid using vinegar, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide. There are several types of cleaners to choose from. Some cleaners break up wax, while others dry the ear canal. There are combination products as well. Consult a your stylist, PetSmart stylist, associate, or your veterinarian to choose the best option for your cat.

Now, it's time to actually clean out the ear canals. Always be gentle! The ear canals and flaps are sensitive. Overly aggressive cleaning can actually cause damage to the delicate ear structures. Pick up an ear flap and dribble a small amount (a few drops) of the appropriate ear cleaning solution into the ear. The solution should flow down deep into the canal. Massage gently at the ear base for 10-20 seconds -- you will probably hear the solution squish around as you massage. This should not be painful for your cat. If it is, have her examined by your vet. Repeat the cleaning procedure with the other ear canal.

After massaging, stand back and let your cat shake his head to bring softened wax up out of the ear canals. Use clean cotton balls to gently wipe out and up the canal, removing any wax, debris, or cleaning solution you see. For small cats, you may need to use cotton balls that have been pulled in half. Avoid using cotton swabs -- a cotton swab placed too deeply or forcefully into the ear can cause eardrum damage, pain, and hearing loss.

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