- Only use ear treatments that have been recommended by the veterinarian.
- Use cotton to clean the ears. Do not use any tissue or other paper to clean the ear or flap as these are irritants to the skin.
- Never insert cotton swabs/Q-tips into the ear canal. They can push ear debris deeper into the canal and can rupture the eardrum. Only use Q-tips on the ear flap, not in the canal.
- Human ear solutions are not designed for pets, and solutions with alcohol may be irritating.
- Do not put medications in the ears unless a veterinarian has examined the ears first. Some medications should be avoided if the ear drum is ruptured.
- If your pet’s ears are painful, a muzzle can help calm your pet allowing you to safely handle them at home.
Cleaning The Ear:
Debris in the ear canal is often irritating and can prevent medication from reaching the infection site.
- Excessive hair in the ear canal may also collect debris and obstruct the flow of medication.
- Extend the ear flap over the head. Gently instill cleanser into the ear canal.
- To loosen debris deep in the ear, massage the external ear canal from the base to the external opening.
- Allow the pet to shake out any excess solution and debris.
- Continue wiping with cotton balls until the ear is clean and dry.
**Ear cleanings may irritate already inflamed ears, causing minor bleeding. This is not cause for panic, but it does indicate that the ear needs a break. If you see blood, stop cleaning the ears for the day and resume on the next scheduled day as directed by your veterinarian.
Applying Ear Medications:
- If you need to medicate the ears after cleaning, wait 30 minutes after flushing before applying ear medication. This allows the ear to dry and prevents dilution of the medication.
- Pull the ear flap over the head, and gently instill medication into the lowest opening of the ear.
- To help the medication disperse throughout the ear, gently massage the external ear canal.