Apply cleanser to ear liberally. Let the cleanser dribble down the inner ear flap (pinna) into the external ear canal opening rather than squirting directly into the hole. This will warm the cleanser and decrease the sound made when the liquid contacts the ear drum (tympanic membrane). Both can be annoying to your pet. |
Massage cleanser into ear canal by gently rubbing the base of the ear. |
With a cotton ball over your fingertip, blot the accessible portion of the ear clean. Let your dog or cat shake out any excess liquid. Clean the same portion of the ear with a dry cotton ball once again. Repeat if necessary.
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DO NOT INSERT Q-TIPS INTO THE EAR CANAL. Use cotton balls instead and only clean the parts of the ear you can actually see. Repeat the ear cleanser application until no further debris is removed with the cottonball or after your pet shakes it's head.
Apply any prescribed ointment medication AFTER cleansing and drying the ear.
Photographs courtesy of WSU website and
Dr. Carol S. Foil, DVM, Diplomate A.C.V.D.
Dr. Sandra R. Merchant, DVM, Diplomate A.C.V.D.
College of Veterinary Medicine
Louisiana State University
Dermatology Service
