What to use to clean a cat's ears from mites at home? - briefly
Use a veterinary‑approved ear cleanser (e.g., a chlorhexidine‑based solution or sterile saline) combined with a few drops of mineral oil to loosen debris, then gently wipe the canal with a soft cotton ball. Apply a prescribed topical mite treatment such as selamectin or ivermectin according to the veterinarian’s instructions.
What to use to clean a cat's ears from mites at home? - in detail
Ear mites manifest as dark, crumb‑like debris, frequent scratching, head shaking, and a strong odor. Confirm the presence of parasites by inspecting the ear canal with a light; live mites appear as tiny, translucent specks moving in the wax.
Cleaning agents suitable for home treatment include:
- Warm saline solution (½ teaspoon salt dissolved in 1 cup boiled, cooled water).
- Diluted apple cider vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water).
- Over‑the‑counter feline ear cleanser containing a mild antiseptic such as chlorhexidine.
Required tools: soft cotton balls or gauze, a small syringe or dropper, a towel to restrain the cat, and a clean container for the solution.
Procedure:
- Restrain the cat gently, using a towel to limit movement.
- Warm the chosen solution to body temperature; cold liquid may cause discomfort.
- Fill the dropper with 2–3 ml of the solution and instill it into the ear canal, avoiding direct contact with the skin.
- Allow the liquid to sit for 30–60 seconds, giving it time to loosen debris and kill mites.
- Massage the base of the ear for a few seconds to distribute the fluid.
- Use a cotton ball or gauze to wipe away softened wax and dead mites; never insert anything deep into the canal.
- Repeat the steps on the opposite ear.
- Dispose of used materials and wash hands thoroughly.
After cleaning, apply a few drops of a feline‑approved ear ointment containing hydrocortisone or a mild anti‑inflammatory agent, if recommended by a veterinarian. Conduct the cleaning routine once daily for three consecutive days, then reduce to every other day for a week. Observe the cat for residual debris or persistent itching.
Seek professional veterinary care if:
- Excessive redness, swelling, or discharge appears.
- The cat shows signs of pain when the ear is touched.
- Symptoms persist beyond two weeks despite regular cleaning.
- The ear canal seems narrowed or obstructed.
Prompt, consistent home care combined with appropriate antiseptic solutions can eliminate ear mite infestations and restore auditory health without immediate veterinary intervention.