Cats are famously good at keeping themselves clean. But there's one place a cat's tongue and paws can't quite reach: inside their ears. Most cats manage perfectly well on their own, but some need a little help now and then, especially certain breeds and older cats.
If the thought of cleaning your cat's ears makes you nervous, you're not alone. Here's how to do it gently, calmly and safely, step by step.
Do cats need their ears cleaned?
Many cats never need their ears cleaned at all. A healthy cat's ear is pale pink, with little or no wax and no smell.
It's still a good idea to check your cat's ears once a week, for example during a cuddle or grooming session. If you notice a little wax or dirt building up in the outer ear, a gentle clean helps keep things comfortable.
Which cats need it most?
Some cats are more prone to ear wax and dirt build-up, including:
- Hairless and short-haired breeds such as the Sphynx, Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, which often produce more ear wax
- Cats with folded ears, such as the Scottish Fold, where air can't circulate as easily
- Flat-faced breeds such as Persians and Exotic Shorthairs
- Long-haired cats such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls, which can have furry ears that trap dirt
- Older cats, who may groom themselves less thoroughly
- Outdoor cats, who can come home with dirt and debris
Why we make our cat ear drops without essential oils
Many ear cleaners for pets contain essential oils such as tea tree or lavender. But cats process many substances differently from dogs and people, and vets often advise caution with essential oils around cats.
That's why we made our Cat Ear Drops without essential oils or alcohol. Instead, they use gentle chamomile, rosemary and calendula flower waters, aloe vera and glycerine, alongside colloidal silver, to help loosen everyday wax and dirt as part of a regular grooming routine.
What you'll need
- Cat ear drops made for cats
- Cotton pads or cotton wool balls
- A small towel
- A few of your cat's favourite treats
- A second person to help, if your cat is wriggly
Never use cotton buds inside your cat's ear. They can push wax further in or damage the delicate ear canal.
How to clean your cat's ears: step by step
Step 1: Choose a calm moment
Pick a time when your cat is relaxed and sleepy, such as after a meal or a nap. Avoid times when they're playful or unsettled.
Step 2: Get comfortable
Sit your cat on your lap or a non-slip surface. If they tend to wriggle, gently wrap them in a towel with just their head showing. Give a treat and a stroke to help them settle.
Step 3: Check the ear
Gently fold back the ear flap and look inside. A little light wax is normal. If you see redness, swelling, dark crumbly debris or a strong smell, stop and speak to your vet instead (see below).
Step 4: Tilt the head gently
Hold your cat's head gently and tilt it slightly to one side, so the ear you're cleaning faces upwards.
Step 5: Apply the drops
Apply 2–3 drops into the ear canal, without letting the dropper tip touch the ear.
Step 6: Massage the base of the ear
Gently massage the base of the ear, near the head, for a few seconds. You may hear a soft squelching sound, which is normal and means the drops are spreading.
Step 7: Let your cat shake
Let go and allow your cat to shake their head. This helps bring loosened wax and debris up to the outer ear. It's a good idea to stand back for this part.
Step 8: Wipe away the excess
Use a cotton pad to gently wipe away any liquid, wax or dirt from the outer ear and the inside of the ear flap. Only wipe the parts you can easily see.
Step 9: Repeat and reward
Repeat on the other ear with a fresh cotton pad, then finish with a treat and plenty of praise.
Your cat ear care routine at a glance
|
How often |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Weekly |
Check both ears during a cuddle or grooming session |
|
As needed |
Clean with ear drops when you notice wax or dirt |
|
Every visit |
Ask your vet to check your cat's ears at routine check-ups |
When to see your vet
Ear cleaning is for keeping healthy ears clean. Speak to your vet, rather than cleaning, if you notice:
- Redness, swelling or heat in the ear
- Dark brown or black crumbly debris
- A strong or unpleasant smell
- Discharge or bleeding
- Your cat scratching their ears, shaking their head a lot or tilting it to one side
- Signs of pain when you touch the ear
These can be signs of a problem that needs a vet's attention.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my cat's ears? Only when needed. Check your cat's ears weekly, and clean them if you notice wax or dirt building up. Many cats rarely need it.
Can I use dog ear drops on my cat? It's best to use products made for cats. Many dog ear cleaners contain essential oils, which aren't recommended for cats.
Can I clean my kitten's ears? Our Cat Ear Drops are suitable for cats from 12 weeks old. For younger kittens, ask your vet for advice.
My cat hates having their ears touched. What can I do? Start by simply stroking around the ears and giving treats, without cleaning. Build up slowly over a few days, and keep sessions short.
Gentle ear care, made for cats. Find our Cat Ear Drops online.
