When a cat suffers from otitis, it is essential to treat it as soon as possible to avoid chronic complications. This problem can cause serious discomfort and even lead to hearing loss if not treated in time. To ensure that the ear treatments and drops recommended by the veterinarian have the desired effect, it is essential that the ear canal is completely clean, without traces of earwax or other contaminants.
What is otitis in cats?
La otitis It is an inflammation that affects the ear canal and can be caused by bacterial infections, parasitic infections (such as ear mites), allergies, or even foreign bodies that get trapped inside the ear. If left untreated, this inflammation can worsen, causing discomfort and possible complications, such as the spread of the infection to the middle and inner ear.
Cats are very clean animals that usually clean their ears naturally, but sometimes, when there is an infection or excessive accumulation of earwax, they need extra help to remove impurities. In these cases, ear cleaning It is a crucial step before applying any treatment.
warning signs
There are certain signs that indicate ear problems of your cat and that require veterinary attention:
- The cat frequently scratches its ears or shakes its head constantly.
- There are yellowish, brown or black discharges in the ear canal.
- There is a bad smell coming from the ear.
- The cat shows sensitivity or pain when touching its ears.
- The ear is red or swollen.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important that you go to the vet as soon as possible, as it could be a serious infection or otitis advanced
Homemade preparations to clean a cat's ears
While your veterinarian may recommend business solutions To clean your cat's ears, there are also homemade preparations effective. An alternative is a mixture of equal parts povidone iodine, medicinal hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of alcohol. However, these types of solutions should only be used if they have been previously approved by a veterinarian to avoid irritation or damage to the ear.
Hydrogen peroxide is key in this mixture, as it removes earwax and scabs through small bubbles that mechanically clean the canal. Povidone iodine acts as a disinfectant, while alcohol helps soften the earwax, making it easier to remove later.
It is essential to be very careful when applying this type of solution. You should never use a high-pressure jet, as this could cause some damage. Instead, it is recommended to use a syringe without a needle and apply the solution gently.
Steps for correct application
Once you have the solution ready, follow these steps to correctly apply the cleaning treatment:
- Using the needle-less syringe, gently apply the solution into the cat's ear.
- Massage the base of your ear for a few seconds to distribute the liquid evenly inside the ear canal.
- Let your cat shake his head to help remove dissolved dirt.
- Use gauze or cotton to remove visible dirt from the surface of the ear, avoiding inserting objects into the ear canal.
How often should cleaning be done?
The frequency of cleaning will depend on the condition of your cat's ear. If your cat has a tendency to accumulate earwax or has been diagnosed with otitis media, it is recommended to clean them every two weeks. In severe or chronic cases, your veterinarian may suggest a more frequent cleaning regimen.
However, for healthy cats, it is not necessary to clean your ears regularly, as your natural mechanisms are usually sufficient to keep them in good condition. Ideally, you should carry out a weekly inspection of your ears and act if you notice signs of infection, redness or excessive wax build-up.
Special care after cleaning
Once the cleaning is done, it is crucial to apply the ear drops recommended by the specialist. These usually contain antibiotics, antifungals or anti-inflammatories, depending on the cause of the otitis. The treatment must be carried out strictly following the veterinarian's instructions to ensure complete healing.
It is also advisable to reward the cat after cleaning; this way, it will associate the experience with something positive and it will be easier to handle it in future cleanings. Use your favorite snack or pet him in his favorite part to reward him.
How to prevent otitis in cats?
Prevention is key to keeping your cat from developing recurrent otitis. Here are some tips:
- Keep the area where your cat spends most of its time clean, avoiding the accumulation of dust and mites.
- Perform frequent ear inspections, especially if your cat goes outside.
- Check bathing your cat without water entering your ears to avoid humidity and possible infections.
Remember that if you have any symptoms of otitis or ear discomfort, you should consult a veterinarian. Homemade treatments and cleaning should only be carried out under the recommendation of a specialist.