How to Clean Your Cat’s Ears

Hi! I’m Ashley, a registered veterinary technician here at Green Valley Veterinary Care in Troy, Ohio. Today, Logan and I are going to show you how to clean Bella’s ears.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Cats have very sensitive ears, so we always want to be gentle.
  • Their ear canals are L-shaped, unlike humans’ straight ear canals.
  • Never use Q-tips or hard objects inside the ear to avoid damage.
  • If your cat seems stressed or uncomfortable, it’s best to stop and try again later.

What You’ll Need

  • A cat-safe ear cleaning solution (medicated or basic, as recommended by your vet)
  • Soft cotton balls or tissues
  • Treats (to make the process less stressful!)
  • A towel (to gently wrap your cat if needed)

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Cat’s Ears

1. Start with a Treat

Before beginning, offer your cat a treat to help them relax. This makes the experience less stressful and more positive!

2. Apply the Ear Cleaning Solution

Depending on your cat’s comfort level, you can apply the cleaner in two ways:

  • Directly into the ear: Gently hold your cat’s ear and pour a small amount of the cleaning solution inside.
  • Using a cotton ball: If your cat dislikes liquid in their ears, saturate a cotton ball with the solution and place it in the ear instead.

3. Massage the Ear

Once the cleaner is inside, gently massage the base of the ear. This helps the solution break down any debris stuck in the ear canal.

Tip: Your cat may shake their head—this is completely normal and helps loosen debris!

4. Wipe Away Debris

Using a soft cotton ball or tissue, carefully wipe away any loosened dirt or wax. Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear.

5. Repeat if Necessary

If the ear is very dirty, repeat the process until the cotton ball comes out clean. However, if the ears are already clean, avoid over-cleaning.

6. Clean the Outer Ear

For any remaining debris in the ear folds, gently wipe the area with a damp cotton ball.

Keeping Your Cat Comfortable

  • If needed, wrap your cat in a towel to keep them calm and secure.
  • If they become too stressed, stop and try again later.
  • If your cat shows signs of ear infections or discomfort, contact your veterinarian.

If you ever have trouble medicating your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Green Valley Veterinary Care! Please give us a call at the office at (937) 358-8142, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!

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