Cleaning your pet’s ears is a necessary part of pet grooming that promotes ear health and prevents ear infections. If you’re unfamiliar with pet ear cleaning, you may be hesitant about the task, especially if your four-legged friend is squirmy, but cleaning their ears doesn’t need to be stressful. Our Oriole Road Animal Hospital team provides step-by-step instructions for safely and effectively cleaning those adorable ears. 

Step 1: Gather pet ear cleaning supplies

To get started, you will need some supplies that will ensure you clean your pet’s ears safely.

Never use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh products on your pet’s delicate ears. Supplies you will need include:

  • Cotton balls or pads
  • Ear cleaning solution formulated for pets
  • Towels for cleanup and clothing protection
  • Paper towels 
  • A non-skid surface, such as a heavy mat
  • Treats as rewards

Ensure your supplies are ready before getting your pet, so you don’t have to interrupt the process. 

Step 2: Prepare a quiet place for your pet

Choose a quiet, comfortable area for the ear-cleaning procedure. If your furry pal is already anxious, noise, sudden movements, and other distractions can increase their stress when they face a new grooming task. Find a favorite spot where they like to relax and consider using a pheromone spray or soft, soothing music to decrease their anxiety. Also, keep them calm with continual reassurance and gentle strokes. If your pet is still anxious or uncooperative, consider enlisting another person to help hold them steady and offer reassurance.

Step 3: Inspect your pet’s ears

Before applying any cleaning solution, lift your pet’s ear flap and investigate the health of their ears, which should have a pinkish tone, clear or minimal ear wax, and no odor. Signs of pet ear infections or ear problems include:

  • Redness
  • Inflammation
  • Foul or yeasty odor
  • Ear sensitivity or pain when touched
  • Excessive ear wax or unusual discharge

If you notice these signs, which may indicate an underlying ear infection or issue requiring veterinary attention, consult our Oriole Road Animal Hospital veterinarian before you begin cleaning. You may be tempted to continue, but cleaning could further damage their ears or cause pain.

Step 4: Clean your pet’s ears

Once you’ve confirmed that your pet’s ears are free from any concerning issues, you can begin the ear-cleaning process:

  • Saturate a cotton ball or pad with the cleaning solution.
  • Gently lift and hold your pet’s ear flap in place, exposing the ear canal.
  • Squeeze a small amount of cleaning solution from the saturated cotton ball into the ear canal and wipe the visible parts of the outer ear.
  • Allow your pet—after you take shelter—to shake their head to dislodge the solution, ear wax, and debris.
  • Using dry cotton balls or paper towels, clean up the remaining solution and debris.

If you prefer, you can use the ear cleaning solution applicator tip to dispense the liquid directly into the ear canal. However, you must avoid damaging the inner ear structures by dispensing only a small amount and not pushing the tip into the ear. 

If your pet’s ears are particularly waxy, you may need to repeat these steps. 

Step 5: Completely dry your pet’s ears

Excess moisture in or around the ear canal can contribute to bacterial or yeast growth. After cleaning, use cotton balls and dry washcloths to wipe the inside of your pet’s ears. Dry ears are healthy ears, so thoroughly dry your furry friend’s ears any time they have been in water, such as after swimming or a bath. 

Step 6: Reward your pet

Finally, the most important step—definitely according to your pet—is a reward for a job well done. Give your pet a treat, and offer verbal praise and snuggles for their cooperation, and favorite toys and activities for positive reinforcement. Your pet will gradually consider ear cleaning positive and fun, and future sessions will become easier.

Regular ear cleaning is an essential aspect of pet grooming and health. By following our Oriole Road Animal Hospital team’s steps, you can help keep your pet’s ears clean, healthy, and free from discomfort. Do not hesitate to call us if you notice any unusual changes in your four-legged friend’s ears.