Your pet’s ears are essential organs that allow your furry pal to remain safe as they navigate the world. Unfortunately, pet owners often overlook cleaning their pet’s ears. Regular ear cleaning is a necessary pet grooming task that helps remove wax and debris, preventing infection and other ear problems. If you are reluctant to clean your furry pal’s ears, read The Old 41 Animal Hospital team’s tips for making the process stress-free. 

Gather your pet’s ear cleaning supplies

Before cleaning your pet’s ears, you must have a few items on hand to ensure you can perform the task correctly. Gather the following:

  • Ear cleaning solution — Always use a cleaning solution specially formulated for dogs or cats. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can irritate your pet’s delicate ear structure and skin.
  • Cotton balls or pads — Cotton balls are used for absorbing excess cleaning solution and ear debris. Never use cotton swabs because they can push debris further into the ear canal or damage the inner ear.
  • Paper towels — These come in handy for wiping drips and spills from the floor after you clean your furry friend’s ears.
  • Nonskid surface — Find a spot in the kitchen or bathroom and place a nonskid plastic mat or rug under your pet so they remain stationary while you’re cleaning their ears.
  • Treats — Reward your furry pal with treats during and after their ear cleaning session. Treats can help your pet develop a positive association with the task, making future ear cleaning sessions easier. 

Gently restrain your pet

Many pets are reluctant to have their ears touched. To avoid injuring your pet’s ears, gently hold your furry pal near you with a leash or ask a family member to hold them still during ear cleaning. If your pet is small, you can place them on your lap. If your dog is large, have them sit beside you on the floor. Additionally, ensure you exercise your pet before the ear cleaning session begins so they feel relaxed and will be less likely to resist being restrained. 

Inspect your pet’s ears

Before applying the cleaning solution to your pet’s ears, inspect your cat’s or dog’s ears. Lift the ear flap and look for redness or discharge, or whether their ears are emitting an unpleasant odor, which could indicate an infection. If you notice any unusual signs, contact The Old 41 Animal Hospital team before proceeding with your pet’s ear cleaning.

Pet ear cleaning steps

After you’ve inspected your pet’s ears and determined that they are healthy, you can begin the cleaning process. Follow these steps for success:

  • Step #1. Hold the ear flap — Gently lift your pet’s ear flap to expose the ear canal.
  • Step #2. Apply the solution — Carefully squeeze the ear cleaning solution into the ear canal. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the product label. You may also use a cotton ball to dispense a small amount in and around your pet’s ear.
  • Step #3. Massage the base of the ear — For about 20 to 30 seconds, gently massage the   ear base to help break up dirt, wax, and debris.
  • Step #4. Let your pet shake their head — After massaging the cleaner into your pet’s ear, allow them to shake their head. This natural reaction helps dislodge debris from deep within the ear canal. Be prepared for some of the solution to spray out when your pet shakes their head. This is why you have your paper towels! 
  • Step #5: Wipe away debris — Using the cotton balls, wipe away any debris or excess solution from the outer ear. 
  • Step #6: Repeat — Once you have completed cleaning one of your pet’s ears, switch to the other ear and repeat these steps. If your pet’s ears are especially dirty or waxy, you can repeat these steps a few times for each ear until it is clean. 
  • Step # 7: Reward your pet — Treats, praise, or a favorite toy offers your pet positive reinforcement, helping them associate ear cleaning with something enjoyable.

You should clean your pet’s ears at least once per month to maintain their ear health, but you may need to clean their ears more frequently if they are prone to earwax buildup. If you would like an ear cleaning demonstration or you have concerns about your pet’s ear health, schedule an appointment with The Old 41 Animal Hospital team.