How to Clean Your Pet’s Ears at Home: A Safe Guide for Dog and Cat Owners

Keeping your pet’s ears clean is an important part of their overall health. Clean ears can help prevent discomfort, odor, infections, and buildup of wax or debris. While some pets rarely need ear cleaning, others - especially dogs with floppy ears, pets who swim often, or pets with allergies - may benefit from regular at-home care.

At our animal hospital, we’re often asked: How do I safely clean my pet’s ears at home? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it confidently and safely. There's also a video below for those of us who enjoy a demo!

---

CAH's "How To" Videos

Take a look at all of our "How To" videos!

Why Ear Cleaning Matters
Healthy ears should be:

• Clean and free of excess wax
• Light pink inside
• Odor-free
• Not itchy or painful

Regular ear checks can help you catch issues early before they become more serious. Reach out to our team if you have concerns!

Signs Your Pet May Need an Ear Cleaning
You may notice:

• Mild wax buildup
• Dirt or debris in the ear flap
• A slight “yeasty” smell
• Head shaking
• Pawing at the ears
• Scratching around the ears

If your pet seems painful, cries when touched, has red or swollen ears, heavy discharge, bleeding, or a strong odor, it’s best to schedule an exam rather than clean at home. At this stage, your pet likely needs medication to get relief.

---

What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather:

• A veterinarian-approved ear cleaner - we carry Epiotic for pets who don't need a prescription ear cleaner
• Cotton balls or gauze
• Towels
• Treats for rewards
• A calm environment

AVOID USING:

• Cotton swabs (Q-tips) inside the ear canal
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Alcohol
• Water
• Homemade cleaners unless directed by your veterinarian

These can irritate sensitive ears or push debris deeper.

How to Clean Your Pet’s Ears: Step-by-Step
1. Get Comfortable
Choose a quiet space where your pet feels relaxed. Smaller pets may do well on your lap or a table with a towel underneath. Larger dogs may prefer the floor.
Speak calmly and offer treats throughout the process.

2. Lift the Ear Flap
Gently lift the ear flap so you can see the opening of the ear canal.
If the ear looks very red, swollen, or painful, stop and contact your veterinarian.

3. Apply the Ear Cleaner
Fill the ear canal with the recommended ear cleaning solution. Don’t worry - you can’t “lose” the cleaner in the ear.
Use enough cleaner to loosen debris.

4. Massage the Base of the Ear
Gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds.
You’ll often hear a squishing sound - this is normal and means the cleaner is working.

5. Let Your Pet Shake
Step back and let your pet shake their head. This helps bring loosened debris up and out.
(Yes, it can get messy - this is where the towel helps!)

6. Wipe Away Debris
Use a cotton ball or gauze to gently wipe the visible part of the ear and inside the flap.
Only clean what you can see. Never push anything deep into the ear canal.
​
7. Reward Your Pet
Give praise, treats, and lots of encouragement so ear cleaning becomes a positive experience!

​How Often Should You Clean Your Pet’s Ears?
This depends on your pet’s needs. Some pets need cleaning:

• Weekly
• Monthly
• Only occasionally

Pets prone to allergies, ear infections, heavy wax, or frequent swimming may need more regular care.
Your veterinarian can recommend the best schedule for your pet.

When to Call the Vet
Schedule an exam if you notice:

• Persistent odor
• Redness or swelling
• Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
• Frequent head shaking
• Pain when touched
• Balance issues
• Repeated ear infections

Ear infections can be caused by bacteria, yeast, allergies, ear mites, or underlying skin disease and cleaning alone won’t solve these types of problems.

Pro Tips for Success

• Start young if possible so pets get used to handling
• Keep sessions short and positive
• Use treats generously
• Clean after swimming if recommended
• Ask us for a demonstration during your next visit 

​We’re Happy to Help
Not sure which ear cleaner to use or whether your pet’s ears are healthy enough for at-home cleaning? Our veterinary team is happy to guide you.
If your dog or cat is showing signs of ear discomfort, contact our animal hospital today to schedule an exam. Healthy ears mean a happier pet!

---