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Most cats are naturally adept at keeping their ears clean. Their grooming routines are so thorough that they can effectively clean the entire back of their ears and even the earlobes. However, there are instances when cats may require assistance in maintaining this area. This also provides an excellent opportunity for you to regularly inspect your cat's ears, helping to identify any potential issues early and prevent them from escalating into more serious conditions.
Steps
Inspect Your Cat's Ears
Examine your cat's ears. Keep in mind that you can only see the outer part of the ear; the inner ear canal and eardrum are not visible as they are positioned horizontally where the ear meets the head.
- Grooming is easiest and least stressful when your cat is seeking attention or feeling sleepy. If they are energetic or playful, they may resist or scratch when you attempt to handle them.
Gently hold the tip of the ear. Carefully rotate the earlobe from the inside out until you can clearly see inside. Look as far into the ear canal as possible. Perform this step for both ears.
- It's best to inspect the ears in a well-lit area, such as near a window or under a bright indoor light.
Determine if ear cleaning is necessary. You can tell your cat's ears are clean if they are pale pink, have minimal earwax or dirt, and no debris or foul odor.
- If your cat's ears are clean, it indicates they are capable of self-cleaning. Note that you don't need to clean their ears if they are already spotless.
Take your cat to the vet if you notice any abnormalities. It's normal for cats to have some earwax and dirt on, in, or around their ears. However, any discharge in or around the ears is unusual.
- Green or yellow pus, dark red or black discharge are all abnormal. Unusual discharge from your cat's ears could indicate a bacterial or fungal infection, or the presence of mites. In such cases, take your cat to the vet immediately.
- An unusual odor coming from the ears.
- Redness or swelling around the ears.
- Your cat has balance issues or constantly tilts its head.
- If you only notice dirt or earwax, you can clean your cat's ears at home.
Cleaning the Ears
Ensure your cat is comfortable. Some cats dislike having their ears cleaned and may resist. Take your cat to a quiet room without other pets. You may need a second person to help hold your cat securely while you clean their ears.
- The person holding the cat should use gentle force. Applying too much pressure can make the cat uncooperative and try to escape.
- If your cat resists, you can 'wrap' your pet by covering their body (including limbs) with a thick towel.
- If your cat becomes too agitated during the cleaning process, stop immediately. You don't want to risk being scratched or bitten.
Purchase an ear cleaning solution. A good solution is typically mildly astringent and dries quickly. You can buy ear cleaning solutions from a veterinary clinic or a reputable pet supply store.
- You can make your own cleaning solution in a pinch. A mixture of one part white vinegar and one part rubbing alcohol can be effective if used sparingly. Be aware that this solution may cause discomfort if your cat has scratches or infections.
- Avoid using water for cleaning as it can remain in the ear and promote yeast growth.
- You can use cotton swabs moistened with hydrogen peroxide or olive oil to clean the outer part of the ear.
Store the ear cleaning solution at room temperature before use. This step ensures your cat feels comfortable. Just as we wouldn’t want cold liquid dropped into our ears, neither does your cat!
Apply a few drops of the cleaning solution into your cat's ear. Use the appropriate amount as recommended on the product label. Clean one ear at a time. Gently massage the base of the ear for 20-45 seconds to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Use firm but gentle pressure while rubbing the base of the ear. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the eardrum. The goal is to remove dirt and wax, not push it further into the ear.
- Always use the full dose as prescribed by your vet or indicated on the cleaning solution. Otherwise, the ear may not be properly cleaned.
Leave your cat alone for one or two minutes. Allow them to shake their head to dislodge any remaining wax or dirt inside.
Dampen a cotton ball or gauze and gently wipe your cat's ear. Avoid inserting the cotton ball or gauze too deeply into the ear canal, as this can trap wax and dirt inside.
- Do not use cotton swabs to clean your cat's ears unless recommended by a veterinarian.
- Avoid cleaning too deep into the ear canal. This can damage the ear canal tissue or even puncture the eardrum. If the eardrum is punctured, your cat may show signs of pain (scratching, meowing, etc.), loss of balance, or tilting their head. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat to the vet for examination.
After cleaning your cat's ears, praise, pet, and reward them. This will help them stay calm and cooperate during future cleanings.
Warnings
- Certain diseases and conditions can cause ear issues in cats. These include ear mites, ticks, fleas, bacterial infections, yeast infections, foreign objects (like plant awns), and, very rarely, tumors. The most common ear problems in cats are otitis externa, infections of the outer ear before the eardrum. If you're concerned about your cat's ear health, consult a veterinarian.
- Bleeding after cleaning is not normal. If you notice blood around your cat's ears after cleaning, take them to the vet immediately.
