Ear Cleaning For Cats: What Owners Need To Know

Cats are usually diligent self-groomers, but they sometimes need help cleaning hard-to-reach places like their ears. While ear cleaning is not always necessary, it can help prevent infections and other issues. Cats may need their ears cleaned if there is a noticeable amount of dirt, excessive wax buildup, ear mites, or an ear infection. It is important to use an appropriate ear-cleaning solution and avoid putting anything into a cat's ear canal, as this can be dangerous.

When to clean a cat's ears

While cats are usually very clean animals that are able to groom themselves, they may sometimes need help cleaning their ears. This is because cats can't reach inside their ears, and so they may need some assistance to prevent ear infections or mite infestations.

You should clean your cat's ears when you notice a build-up of wax, discharge, or odour. Other signs that your cat's ears need cleaning include frequent scratching or shaking of the head, or red, swollen ears. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to consult your veterinarian before attempting to clean your cat's ears yourself. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and recommend a suitable ear-cleaning solution.

If your veterinarian advises you to clean your cat's ears at home, you should follow the following steps:

• Prepare your cat by wrapping it in a towel, leaving only the head exposed. This will help to keep your cat calm and prevent it from moving around too much.
• Create a calm environment by going into a small room, dimming the lights, and minimising loud noises.
• Hold your cat in your lap and gently pull back the tip of the ear flap to expose and straighten the ear canal.
• Squeeze a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution into your cat's ear canal, filling it completely. It is normal for some of the solution to spill out.
• Massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds to allow the solution to break up the debris.
• Allow your cat to shake its head to remove excess solution and debris.
• Use a cotton ball or gauze to wipe away any remaining solution and debris from the outer opening of the ear canal. Be careful not to insert anything, including your finger, into your cat's ear canal, as this can cause damage.
• Repeat the process with the other ear.

It is important to only clean your cat's ears when necessary, as over-cleaning can cause irritation and lead to infection. Most cats have healthy, clean ears and never need to have their ears cleaned. Regularly checking your cat's ears for any signs of dirt or infection is a good idea, and you can incorporate this into your cat's weekly routine.

Supplies for cleaning

Cats are usually very good at keeping themselves clean and don't often need help with their ears. However, some cats are more prone to wax build-up or ear infections, so it's a good idea to check their ears regularly for any signs of infection or mites. If you notice any issues, it's best to consult your vet before attempting to clean your cat's ears at home.

If your cat's ears are dirty but don't appear to be causing any discomfort, you can try cleaning them at home. But first, make sure you have the right supplies:

• A cleaning solution specifically formulated for cats' ears. It's important to use a product designed for cats, as human products or other solutions can be very harmful to their delicate ears. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation if you're unsure.
• Cotton balls or gauze to apply the cleaning solution and wipe away any debris or discharge. You can also use cotton pads, cotton rounds, or tissues to wipe and dry the inside of your cat's ears.
• A towel to wrap around your cat. This can help keep them calm and still during the cleaning process. It can also be useful for drying any surfaces after your cat shakes out their ears.
• Optional: A helper to gently hold your cat while you clean their ears. This can make the process easier and less stressful for both you and your cat.
• Treats to reward your cat and help create a positive association with ear cleanings.

Once you have all your supplies ready, you can start the cleaning process. Remember to always speak softly and gently to your cat throughout, and be sure to reward them with treats and affection afterward!

Step-by-step instructions

While cats are usually very good at grooming themselves, they sometimes need help with their ears. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your cat's ears:

Step 1: Prepare your cat

If your cat is anxious or fighting you, do not clean their ears. If they are comfortable, you can give them fear-free prescription medication ahead of time. Then, wrap your cat up in a towel, leaving only their head sticking out. This will help keep their paws and claws safely tucked away. If your cat is resistant to being wrapped in a towel, you can try cradling them like a baby in your lap.

Step 2: Create a calm environment

Go into a small room and minimise loud noises. Dim the lights, but not so much that you can't see. Move slowly and talk softly.

Step 3: Apply the cleaning solution

Gently pull back your cat's ear flap to expose and straighten the ear canal. Hold the ear cleaning solution close to their ear, but do not put the bottle tip in the ear. If the tip touches your cat's ear, clean it with an alcohol wipe to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast.

Squeeze enough solution into the ear to fill the ear canal. Some may spill out, which is fine. Massage the base of the ear for 5-30 seconds with your finger wrapped in a cotton ball or gauze to allow the cleaning solution to work.

Step 4: Wipe away debris and excess solution

Hold the ear flap and use a cotton ball, gauze, or tissue to wipe away any debris and excess solution from the inner part of the ear flap and the upper ear canal. Be careful not to go too far into the ear canal.

Step 5: Allow your cat to shake their head

Your cat will likely shake their head to dislodge any remaining solution and debris.

Step 6: Remove any remaining solution and debris

Hold the ear flap and use a cotton ball, gauze, or tissue to remove any remaining solution and debris from the outer opening of the ear canal. Again, be careful not to go too far into the ear canal.

Step 7: Repeat with the other ear

Repeat the same process with your cat's other ear.

Step 8: Praise your cat and provide treats

Give your cat lots of praise and treats to help them associate the ear-cleaning process with a positive experience.

Signs of infection or parasites

Ear infections are uncommon in cats, but they can be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you suspect your cat has an ear infection, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

• Frequent head shaking and ear scratching: This is a common sign of an ear infection in cats. The itchiness and discomfort caused by the infection can lead to an itch-scratch cycle, resulting in frequent scratching and head shaking.
• Ear discharge: Look out for any type of discharge, especially yellowish or black discharge, or discharge resembling coffee grounds. This could indicate the presence of ear mites or an infection.
• Swelling or redness in the ear canal: Healthy cat ears are usually pale pink and free of debris, wax, or odour. Infected ears often appear red, swollen, or may have a noticeable odour.
• Wax buildup: While a small amount of wax is normal, a change in the amount of wax produced by your cat may indicate an issue. Some breeds, such as Rex, Sphinx, and other hairless breeds, may naturally produce more wax.
• Ear pain or discomfort: If your cat is pawing at their ear, shaking their head, or showing other signs of discomfort, they may be experiencing ear pain due to an infection or parasite infestation.
• Odour: A foul smell coming from your cat's ears could indicate an infection or the presence of parasites.
• Redness and sores (ulceration): Redness and sores on the pinna (outer ear flap) can be a sign of an ear infection.
• Behavioural changes: In some cases, cats with ear infections may show signs of incoordination or vestibular issues, similar to vertigo in humans.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult your veterinarian. They can examine your cat's ears and determine the underlying cause of the issue. Early treatment is essential to prevent the infection from becoming more severe and causing further complications, such as hearing loss or facial paralysis.

What to do if your cat is stressed

Cats are subtle animals, and it can be tricky to tell if they're stressed. They may change their behaviour slightly, or start doing things that you perceive as 'naughty'. In the wild, this would help them avoid becoming an easy target for predators.

If your cat is stressed, they can become emotionally and physically unwell, resulting in problem behaviours and a worrying time for both cat and owner.

Signs of stress in cats

• Becoming more withdrawn or hiding more than usual
• Becoming less tolerant of people
• Hesitating or becoming reluctant to use the litter tray, go through the cat flap, or sit on your lap
• Eating or drinking less
• Scratching the furniture
• Crouching and looking tense
• Exaggerated swallowing or licking their nose
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Increased vocalisations
• Excessive grooming
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Aggression
• Reduced activity levels
• Low appetite and water intake
• Diarrhoea and vomiting
• Make an appointment with your veterinarian, who can determine if there are any underlying medical issues and prescribe anti-anxiety medications.
• Set up an ideal space for your cat with all the resources she needs to feel comfortable and express normal behaviours. This includes elevated perches for her to view the outdoors, horizontal and vertical scratching surfaces, well-placed food and water bowls to encourage her to eat and drink regularly, and clean litter boxes in easily accessible locations that suit her preferences.
• Establish a routine for your cat. Having consistency in her daily activities removes the additional stress that uncertainty can bring.
• Provide your cat with sufficient environmental enrichment through plenty of positive attention, including petting, grooming, and interactive play. The use of puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys containing dry food can also be helpful.
• If your cat is stressed from interactions with other pets in the house, consider professional training to help better socialise your animals and reduce undesirable behaviours that negatively impact your cat’s well-being.

Frequently asked questions