The Best Cat Ear Cleaners
While our cats are usually masters of their own hygiene, it's not so easy to keep ears clean with a set of paws. If infection strikes, they can be bothered with irritated skin around the ear cavity, leading to scratching and discomfort. When you start to notice the telltale signs of infection, it's time to get your hands on an ear cleaner for your cat. We've rounded up this list of the best, offering a timely remedy to several of the most common otic ailments faced by felines today.
What to Look For
With so many cat ear cleaners to choose from, we focused our search on three key questions: Is the treatment suitable for irritated ears? Is it effective against bacteria and fungi, or mites? Is there enough solution included for multiple treatments? Our favorite overall is the otic ear solution from Zymox. This powerful ear cleaner comes with a small dose of hydrocortisone to directly relieve ear irritation. If you’re looking for a solution for ear mites, check out the tried-and-tested formula from Four Paws. Read on below to discover the rest of our favorites.
Zymox Otic Ear Solution
Steroid support
Convincing your cat to play along with oral medication can be an arduous task. This powerful otic ear solution includes a small helping of hydrocortisone to relieve itching and discomfort without needing to resort to burying pills in their evening meal. The liquid solution is easy to apply with no pre-cleaning necessary. Thanks to the patented LP3 enzyme system, it can work wonders in removing excess ear secretions.
Pros:
- This enzymatic solution is equally effective against infections caused by yeast, fungi, or bacteria.
- We found that most ear infections were cleared after following this seven-day treatment.
- The gentle, no-sting formula is a winner for sensitive skin.
Cons:
- This powerful solution is a little pricier than some alternatives, but you get what you pay for here.
Four Paws Healthy Promise Ear Mite Treatment
Mighty clean
Mites are no fun for our furry friends, and if their ears start to flare up with the telltale signs of infection you’ll want to have this treatment on hand. The quick-acting formula kills mites on contact, offering a speedy end to any developing infestation. With a blended composition including soothing aloe vera, this solution can provide your cat with immediate relief from itching.
Pros:
- These drops are easy to apply, with no pre-cleaning required.
- This treatment is proudly made in the USA, making it a natural choice for those who value shopping locally.
Cons:
- This treatment isn’t suitable for kittens younger than 12 weeks.
Arava Pet Ear Cleaner Wipes
All in one
These handy cleaning wipes from Arava combine everything you need to keep your pet’s ears squeaky clean. Each wipe is infused with 26 dead sea minerals, combining the soothing relief of wild burdock, mallow, licorice, aloe vera, and more, into a delicate therapeutic experience for your cat to enjoy. The small wipes are well-sized for delicate ears, so you won’t need to have anything else to hand as you tend to your pet.
Pros:
- This 100-pack is sure to stand the test of time.
- The mineral-rich solution is also rich in vitamins E, D, and B5 to support healthy ears.
- If you’ve experienced excess dead skin on your pet’s ears after using other treatments, this moisturizing solution could resolve the issue.
Cons:
- The resealable container can result in the wipes drying out between uses if you’re not careful.
Pet MD Advanced Otic Veterinary Ear Cleaner
Delicately does it
Encouraging our pets to play ball with hygiene rituals and medical treatments can be a tough task at the best of times, and the last thing we want to do is cause them additional discomfort in the process. If your cat has particularly sensitive skin, it can make them even more reluctant to receive topical solutions. If you’re looking for a gentle lotion for finicky kitties, this carefully formulated recipe from Pet MD is one to investigate. The delicate, non-irritating alcohol-free wipes are incredibly gentle to the skin, leaving your cat feeling fresh and clean without the burn.
Pros:
- These wipes have a delicate cucumber and melon scent, fighting nasty odors at the scene of the crime.
- The wipes are conveniently disposable, meaning you can quickly apply a treatment even if you’re outside of the house.
- Pet MD products are veterinary approved.
Cons:
- Some cats might not appreciate the smell of these wipes.
Miracle Care Ear Powder Step 1
Dry treatment
This great value powder treatment from Miracle Care will clear up your cat’s mucky ears in no time. Simply apply the powder into your pet’s ear canal and watch the solution work its magic, eliminating waxy buildup and catching debris at the source. If your cat isn’t fond of ear drops, it offers a speedy alternative.
Pros:
- This large, 12-gram container provides enough powder to last for several months.
- The dry powder solution makes it easier to remove trapped hairs than liquid treatments.
Cons:
- Powdered treatments are messier to apply than topical lotions, so make sure you choose a suitable space to work before getting started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I also use my cat ear cleaner on dogs?
If you’re hosting a menagerie of small mammals at home, you might be hoping to kill two birds with one stone by finding an ear treatment suitable for both dogs and cats. Some of the cat ear cleaners we reviewed are also approved for use on dogs. Be sure to pay close attention to the instructions included. If in doubt, it’s best to check in with your vet before beginning a new treatment.
How often do I need to apply the treatment?
Different solutions vary in their modes of application, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the instructions before launching into a cleaning session. Some treatments need to be applied daily for a week or more, whereas others can be used for routine cleaning on an irregular basis. As with any new health product, be sure to keep an eye on your pet as you carry out the treatment to ensure no complications develop.
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