How to clean a cat’s ears with ear mites? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser to the cat’s ear canal, massage the base to loosen debris, and wipe away excess with a cotton ball; repeat on the other ear. Administer the prescribed acaricide according to veterinary guidance to eliminate mites and prevent recurrence.
How to clean a cat’s ears with ear mites? - in detail
Ear mite infestation causes dark, waxy debris and intense itching. Prompt cleaning reduces discomfort and prevents secondary infection.
Identify the problem by observing frequent head shaking, scratching near the ears, and a brownish discharge. A veterinarian can confirm the presence of Otodectes cynotis through microscopic examination.
Gather supplies: a veterinarian‑approved ear cleanser, cotton balls or gauze, sterile solution of saline, disposable gloves, and a towel to restrain the cat safely. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the ear canal.
Follow a systematic procedure:
- Restrain the cat – place the animal on a non‑slipping surface, wrap gently with a towel, leaving the head exposed.
- Inspect – lift the ear flap to view the canal; note the amount of debris and any inflammation.
- Apply cleanser – dispense the recommended volume into the canal, allowing it to sit for the time specified on the product label (usually 30–60 seconds). This softens wax and dislodges mites.
- Massage the base – gently massage the base of the ear for several seconds to distribute the solution throughout the canal.
- Drain – hold the ear upright to let excess fluid and loosened debris flow out onto the towel.
- Remove debris – use a soft cotton ball or gauze to wipe the visible wax and mite fragments from the outer canal. Do not insert material deep into the ear.
- Dry – pat the ear dry with a clean towel to prevent moisture buildup, which can encourage bacterial growth.
- Repeat – perform the same steps on the opposite ear if symptoms are present.
After each cleaning session, monitor the cat for residual discharge or signs of irritation. If inflammation persists, a veterinarian may prescribe topical antiparasitic medication, such as selamectin or moxidectin, to eradicate the mites completely.
Maintain ear health by scheduling regular checks, especially in multi‑cat households where infestation spreads rapidly. Incorporate routine cleaning with a mild, veterinarian‑approved solution once a month, and treat all pets simultaneously if an outbreak occurs. This approach minimizes recurrence and supports overall feline well‑being.