Your Guide to Pet Ear Care

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons pet owners visit the veterinarian. The good news? Many ear problems can be prevented with regular cleaning and the right products. As a pharmacy that dispenses veterinary medications and compounds custom prescriptions for pets, we see ear-related prescriptions frequently — and we want to help you stay ahead of the problem.

Why Ear Cleaning Matters

Dogs and cats can develop ear infections when debris, wax, moisture, or bacteria build up in the ear canal. Certain breeds are especially prone: dogs with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds), dogs that swim regularly, and dogs with allergies are all at higher risk. Cats can develop ear problems too, particularly those with narrow ear canals or chronic allergies.

Regular ear cleaning removes the wax and debris that bacteria and yeast need to grow. Think of it as preventive maintenance — a few minutes of cleaning can save your pet (and your wallet) from a painful infection and a trip to the vet.

Step 1: Softening the Wax (Cerumenolytic Agents)

Before you clean the ear, you may need to soften and loosen any hardened wax. This is where cerumenolytic agents come in. These products work by breaking down cerumen (ear wax) so it can be flushed or wiped away more easily.

There are several types of cerumenolytic agents available over the counter for pets. Some are oil-based (like squalane), which soften wax without breaking it apart. Others, like carbamide peroxide, are foaming agents that release oxygen to help lift debris. Glycerin-based products work similarly to oils but are milder.

How to use cerumenolytic agents

Apply the product into the ear canal and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then gently wipe away loosened wax with a cotton ball or gauze. Never insert cotton swabs deep into your pet's ear canal. Follow up with a cleaning/drying solution.

Popular veterinary cerumenolytic products include Cerumene® (squalane-based), Earoxide® (carbamide peroxide), and EpiKlean® (propylene glycol and salicylic acid). Your veterinarian or pharmacist can help you choose the right one.

Step 2: Cleaning and Drying

After removing wax, you'll want to clean and dry the ear canal. Cleaning and drying agents use astringents like isopropyl alcohol or aluminum acetate, and acids like boric acid or salicylic acid. These products help remove remaining debris and keep the ear canal dry — which is key, because moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

Cleaning and drying solutions are also great for routine maintenance. Use them after bathing or swimming to keep your pet's ears dry, especially if your dog loves the water.

Popular cleaning and drying products include MalAcetic® (acetic acid and boric acid), Epi-Otic® Advanced (with chloroxylenol and salicylic acid), and Zymox® Ear Cleanser (an enzyme-based option).

Step 3: Know When It's More Than Just Wax

Regular cleaning is preventive, not a treatment for infection. If you notice any of these signs, stop cleaning and see your veterinarian:

• Ears that are red, swollen, or hot to the touch
• A foul or unusual odour coming from the ears
• Dark, crumbly, or pus-like discharge
• Your pet shaking their head excessively or pawing at their ears
• Pain when you touch or try to clean the ears

Your vet may prescribe medicated ear drops that contain antibiotics, antifungals, or corticosteroids. We fill these prescriptions at Orleans Community Pharmacy and can also compound custom formulations if a specific concentration or combination is needed.

Quick Reference: Choosing the Right Product

Important Safety Notes

• Never use cerumenolytic agents if your pet's eardrum may be ruptured — squalane-based products are the exception, but check with your vet first.
• Avoid alcohol-based products on ears that are inflamed, ulcerated, or painful.
• Never insert cotton swabs deep into the ear canal.
• Blue chlorhexidine solutions can stain — keep treated pets away from furniture and carpets until dry.