all you need to know about dog and cat ear care

Have you noticed your dog or cat scratching their ears more often? Maybe you’re curious if you can treat or clean your pet’s ears. In this post, we’ll address some of your burning questions about all things dog and cat ears. 

Why is my dog scratching their ear? 

Ear scratching is super normal, but it also means your pup might be experiencing a medical problem. Ear scratching means your dog or cat could have an ear infection, ear mites, flea bites, or tick bites. Sometimes, they might have something stuck in their ear, like barbed grass awns or seeds. The first step to treating this uncomfortable situation is by scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian. They will help treat the cause of the itching or remove the object found in their ear. Learn more about ear scratching here. 

How to clean your dog’s or cat’s ears 

It’s a good idea to regularly clean your dog’s or cat’s ears, though that might sound easier said than done. We have how-to guides here and here, but essentially, you’ll want to get a vet-recommended ear cleaning solution, cotton balls, a clean towel, and treats. Never use cotton swabs, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or witch hazel in a dog’s or cat’s ear, and remember: If your little cutie doesn’t want to let you clean their ears, contact your vet before proceeding. They can give you helpful advice or clean your pet’s ears for you. 

Can I treat my dog’s ear infection?

The short answer is no. While regular cleanings are an excellent way to help keep their ears healthy, when they become infected, you’ll need to enlist the help of a veterinarian. Taking matters into your own hands could potentially lead to greater problems and a worse infection. 

For more helpful tips, check out our ear care page here.