How to clean a cat's ears at home from ear mites? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to the ear canal, massage the base of the ear for 30 seconds, then let the cat shake and gently wipe away debris with a cotton ball; repeat the process once daily for several days until symptoms resolve. If the condition persists, seek professional veterinary treatment.
How to clean a cat's ears at home from ear mites? - in detail
Cleaning a cat’s ears when ear mites are present requires careful preparation, proper tools, and gentle technique.
First, confirm the presence of mites by looking for dark debris resembling coffee grounds, excessive scratching, or head shaking. A veterinarian’s diagnosis is advisable before beginning home treatment.
Gather the following items: a veterinarian‑approved ear cleaning solution, sterile cotton balls or gauze, soft cloth, disposable gloves, and a towel to restrain the cat. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the ear canal.
The cleaning process:
- Restrain gently – wrap the cat in a towel, leaving the head exposed, to prevent sudden movements.
- Apply solution – lift the ear flap and fill the canal with enough liquid to reach the debris. Follow the product’s instructions for dosage, typically 2–3 ml.
- Massage base – rub the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds. This dislodges mites and wax.
- Allow drainage – let the cat shake its head; the fluid will carry debris outward.
- Wipe excess – use a cotton ball or gauze to remove visible material from the outer ear and canal entrance. Do not insert the material deep into the canal.
- Repeat on the other ear – perform the same steps for the opposite side.
After cleaning, monitor the cat for residual debris or irritation. Repeat the procedure every 2–3 days for a week, or as directed by the veterinarian, to ensure complete eradication.
If redness, swelling, discharge, or persistent scratching continues after several treatments, seek veterinary care promptly. Prescription medications such as topical acaricides may be required.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining regular ear inspections, keeping the cat’s environment clean, and treating all household pets simultaneously if mites are detected.