Ear Cleaning Treatment
- Ear cleaning treatments are beneficial to prevent excess wax buildup. Cleanings help maintain a balance in the natural yeasts found in the ear and cleans and disinfects bacteria found there, too. Cleaning out excess wax and yeast helps prevent infections and mite infestations, which could lead to great discomfort to your pet if left untreated. Ear cleaners can be used to treat ear problems or as s daily prevenative.
- Commercial cleaners are available at your local pet store or your vet's office. These cleaners are good options, if you prefer not to make your own. Each cleaner is different, but, in general, you insert the solution into the ear and rub the base of your pet's ear to work the solution in. Using a cotton ball, wipe away the excess fluid and debris that is brought up. However, before using a commercial cleaner, read all directions, in case they are different. If you are unsure of the appropriate cleaner to use for your pet, ask your vet for recommendations, suggests Organic Pet Digest.
- Mineral oils can be used to make home cleansing solutions. Mineral oils clean and disinfect your pet's ear. The oil loosens excess ear wax and debris that can build up in the ear canal. In the event of mites, the oil suffocates them. Plus, when you clear away the ear wax, you remove the food source for the mites, starving them. When it comes to yeast infections, it helps return the natural balance of yeast in the ear. Mineral oil treatments are similar to commercial cleaners in application. A few drops of the treatment can be applied using an eye dropper and wiped away with a cotton ball. You can try other types of oils; however, according to Veterinary Watch, tree oils should be avoided with cats since it can be toxic to them.
- Although concentrated garlic can be dangerous to cats when ingested, according to the ASPCA, in small doses or when used topically, garlic can be safe and beneficial. Garlic oil can be made by putting a few crushed cloves of garlic into mineral oils and leaving them overnight, before removing the cloves. The topical treatment using garlic oil is the same as straight mineral oils and will clean and disinfect your pet's ear. The garlic kills bacteria and is especially effective at treating severe mite infestations in both cats and dogs.
- Green tea has similar properties and effects as that of garlic and mineral oils. Its antiseptic properties are an effective weekly cleaner for your pet's ears. It helps fight bacteria and parasites in the ear canal. This treatment is created by brewing a cup of green tea as you normally would and allowing it to cool completely before administering it like you would a mineral oil treatment. According to Vet Info, green tea is a natural pet ear cleaner that is safe and efficient.
