https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/grooming/clean-cats-ears
Cleaning your cat’s ears is not typically part of routine grooming - cats are generally excellent at self cleaning, and a small amount of ear wax is perfectly normal.
However, there are situations where ear cleaning may be necessary, such as when debris is visibly inside the ear flaps, wax buildup significantly exceeds normal levels, or signs of ear mites or infection are present.
If any of these occur, consult your veterinarian before proceeding, as unnecessary cleanings can irritate the ear and lead to health issues.
Symptoms like frequent head shaking, drooping ears, excessive scratching, redness, dark particles, unusual discharge, foul odor, or pus often indicate an underlying problem like mites or infection.
In these cases, a vet may recommend a prescription ear cleaning solution and, if mites or inflammation are confirmed, may also clean the ears during an exam.
For cats with chronic wax overproduction, monthly cleanings - performed either at home or by a professional - may be suggested, possibly with sedation if your cat becomes overly anxious during the process.
When instructed by your veterinarian, gently soak a cotton ball in the recommended ear cleaning solution and massage the ear’s outer opening for about 30 seconds. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. After wiping away loosened debris with a fresh cotton ball or soft cloth, allow your cat to shake its head naturally to expel any residual liquid. Keep cleaning sessions in an easy to clean area and dress accordingly, as splatter from your cat’s shake off is to be expected.
Chewy editorial team understands just know how much you care about keeping your cat happy and healthy - and sometimes, that means lending a hand with their hygiene.
While most cats do a great job grooming themselves, there are moments when they may need a little help, especially with ear care.
That is why an educational video guide was provided to walk you through when and how to safely clean your cat’s ears, giving you peace of mind and helping your kitty feel their best.
