According to one U.K. study, the prevalence of ear infections in dogs older than a year is about 7%, but that number can go up to 20% or more in predisposed breeds. This extremely common condition causes itching, pain, and general discomfort. Although your pet’s chances of suffering from ear infections depend on several specific risk factors, one way to reduce their odds is to implement a regular ear-cleaning routine. The Pony Express Veterinary Hospital team shares how to safely clean your pet’s ears at home.
Why pet ear cleaning matters
Your pet’s ears contain wax-producing glands, which secrete an oily substance designed to protect the delicate skin in the ear canal and keep the normal bacteria and yeast inhabitants in check. Regular ear cleaning removes wax buildup and trapped debris and prevents irritation so the ear can do its job.
Some pets are predisposed to ear infections because of their outer ear flap shape, or a combination of underlying factors. Pets with heavy, floppy ears (e.g., Basset hounds) or narrow ear canals (e.g., Shar-peis) can develop infections when moisture gets trapped inside. Infections can also develop when underlying conditions—most commonly allergies—cause inflammation, which then allows yeast and bacteria overgrowth. Ear cleaning is a crucial step in preventing recurrent infections and provides regular opportunities to inspect the ears.
Pet ear cleaning recommended frequency
Most pets require ear cleaning only periodically to maintain ear health, typically once a month. The best time to clean your pet’s ears is after a routine bath, but you should also plan to clean your dog’s ears after swimming sessions, which can lead to moisture buildup and subsequent infection. Healthy cats typically do not require routine cleaning.
Pets who have a history of ear infections, floppy ears, or who have been diagnosed with a predisposing condition require preventive ear cleaning every one to two weeks. Possible underlying conditions include environmental allergies, food allergies, or ear polyps. During active infections, your veterinary team may suggest that you clean the ears daily or every other day.
Ear cleaning tools
Using the wrong tools to clean your pet’s ears can injure the sensitive eardrum, irritate the ear canal, or cause a new or worsened infection. You can use cotton-tipped swabs to remove debris from outer crevices, but never put them inside the ear canal. Instead, gather these supplies:
- Pet-safe ear cleansing solution — Use only a veterinarian-approved ear cleansing solution designed for your pet’s ears. These have ingredients targeted at bacteria, yeast, or both, and contain drying agents. Do not use alcohol, peroxide, or vinegar-based homemade solutions.
- Cotton balls — Small to medium-sized cotton balls are best, or you can halve jumbo cotton balls.
- Tasty treats — If possible, recruit an assistant to help you hold your pet still and treat your pet often to ensure a positive ear-cleaning experience.
Step-by-step instructions for pet ear cleaning
Once you have supplies ready, follow these steps to clean the ears:
- Inspect the ears — Flip up the ear flap and look for redness, swelling, debris, or a foul odor. If you notice anything unusual, consult your veterinarian before proceeding.
- Apply the ear cleaner — Fill the ear canal with your veterinarian-approved ear-cleaning solution, or place a cotton ball heavily saturated with solution in the canal.
- Massage the ear — Gently massage the ear’s base for a few seconds to help the solution break up wax and debris. Work to gently push debris upward.
- Wipe away debris — Use dry cotton balls to wipe away the diluted wax and debris that is pushed to the ear canal’s opening. Allow your pet to shake their head to loosen additional debris, and then wipe again.
- Medicate — If you are cleaning the ears during an active infection or your veterinarian has provided a preventive medication to use after routine cleanings, now is the time.
- Repeat on the other side — If necessary, take a short break, and then repeat on the other side.
When to call your veterinarian
Don’t try to clean your pet’s ears if you notice possible infection signs. If the eardrum is damaged, the ear cleaning solution could harm your pet’s middle or inner ear. Call your veterinarian if you notice the following:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Dark, tan, or yellow discharge
- Yeasty or foul odor
- Head-shaking
- Ear scratching
Ear cleaning is a simple yet crucial aspect of your pet’s overall care. Regular ear maintenance can prevent or help resolve infections. Contact The Pony Express Veterinary Hospital team if you suspect your pet has an ear infection or you would like an ear-cleaning demonstration or product recommendation.
Leave A Comment