How To Clean Cat Ears Properly

Cats are special animals and they also show it when you try to cuddle them. If you have one, you know that if you try to touch it in a delicate area, you will only receive bites and scratches in return . This is important when we talk about hygiene care, as these little cats cannot completely clean themselves. So let’s see, in this article, tricks and tips to clean your cat’s ears correctly.

Why should you clean your cat’s ears?

You already know that cats are independent and self-sufficient beings , especially regarding their hygiene. Although obviously, the ears are a difficult area to reach, even for them. Neither with their paws nor with their tongue are they able to keep them clean. Since it is your  responsibility to care for the health and well-being of these pets, you will have to take care of the hygiene of your four-legged friend’s ears.

Cleaning the cat’s ears is crucial because this part of the body, being closed, poorly ventilated and humid, is more exposed to the proliferation of bacteria and parasites. These microorganisms can cause serious illness to your pet feline. Hence, one must be aware of the importance of taking care of the hygiene of his ears.

For this reason, don’t hesitate to check your ears whenever you get the chance, at least once a month. Remember that you should never put anything inside, such as  cotton swabs , other objects or anything else that could injure your cat’s hearing system.

Tricks to clean your cat’s ears

We have collected a number of practical tips to help you clean your cat’s ears, without causing him discomfort and making this operation simply become another time to be together.

1. Choose the most appropriate time

As we told you at the beginning, if you plan on forcing your cat to sit on your lap, forcing it while you clean its ears, the chances of success will be minimal. To avoid this situation, it is best to wait for the most appropriate time.

For example, when the cat approaches you, spontaneously, looking for cuddles. Or when he is very tired, sleepy or even when he sleeps. Examine his ears, taking advantage of the unusual calm and check if they are dirty and where. Remember that you will only have to deal with the external ear . In fact, internal cleaning will always and only be done by the veterinarian.

2. Use a spray – it is safe and easy to use

In veterinary clinics, you can get a  specially developed spray to clean your pet’s ears. Choose one that you think is appropriate and spray a minimal amount inside the pet’s ear. As soon as it notices the liquid, the animal will stand up and start  shaking its head. Don’t worry, on the contrary, this movement is just fine. In fact, in this way the liquid will spread everywhere and will favor its sanitizing action.

3. Clean the cat’s ears with gauze

A last system, equally effective, involves the use of a moistened gauze. We advise you to clean the ears of the cat to remove the product, which will take away the accumulated dirt. Always do it with extreme delicacy and attention, inserting one of your fingers under the gauze. Remember not to introduce any objects and not to go too deep, as you could injure the ear canal. This is a very delicate and sensitive area.

The importance of positive reinforcement in cats

We’ve always told you that what works best with animals is positive reinforcement. If you treat your cat with attention, affection and taking advantage of the positive lever of  rewards, such as treats or  snacks , surely the domestic feline will gladly accept having his ears cleaned.

Once the operation is finished, therefore, immediately reward the animal. Show him your love and appreciation for doing well. Talk to him calmly, caress him and offer him what he likes most:  his favorite food.

Cleaning your cat’s ears is certainly not an easy task to do. But, if you are able to follow our advice, this will soon become a habit that your four-legged friend will appreciate. If only for the fact that he will always receive a reward in return,  associating cleanliness with something extremely positive and pleasant.