How do you clean your cat's ears

Prepare the supplies: Gather everything you'll need, including cat-specific ear cleaning solution (never use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide), cotton balls or pads, and treats to reward your cat afterward.

Choose the right time: Pick a time when your cat is relaxed, such as after a meal or a play session. It's best to avoid cleaning their ears when they're agitated or anxious.

Gently restrain your cat: Hold your cat securely in your lap or have someone else hold them gently. It may help to wrap them in a towel to keep them calm and prevent them from squirming.

Inspect the ears: Before cleaning, take a quick look inside your cat's ears to check for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or foul odor. If you notice any abnormalities, consult your veterinarian before proceeding with cleaning.

Apply the ear cleaning solution: Hold the ear flap gently and lift it upward to expose the ear canal. Apply a few drops of the ear cleaning solution into the ear canal. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.

Massage the base of the ear: Gently massage the base of your cat's ear for about 20 to 30 seconds. This helps the cleaning solution to loosen any dirt or debris inside the ear canal.

Allow your cat to shake its head: After massaging, your cat may shake its head. This is normal and helps to dislodge any loosened debris from the ear canal.

Wipe away debris: Use a cotton ball or pad to gently wipe away any visible dirt or debris from the outer part of the ear canal. Avoid going too deep into the ear canal to prevent injury.

Repeat if necessary: If your cat's ears are particularly dirty, you may need to repeat the process on the other ear. Be sure to use a fresh cotton ball or pad for each ear.

Reward your cat: Once you've finished cleaning your cat's ears, reward them with praise and treats to make the experience more positive.

Clean equipment: Dispose of used cotton balls or pads and wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning your cat's ears to prevent the spread of bacteria.

If you encounter any difficulties or your cat becomes distressed during the ear cleaning process, stop and try again later or consult your veterinarian for advice.