Earwax in dogs and cats: What you need to know and tips for removal

Earwax - also called cerumen - is a natural secretion produced in the ears of dogs and cats. It has the important function of keeping the ear canal clean and supple and of catching dirt, dust or microorganisms and transporting them out. In some cases, however, too much earwax accumulates or the ear canal is not cleaned effectively enough. This can lead to unpleasant odors, itching or even infections.

Below you will learn why earwax can become a problem, how to remove it safely and what role products containing salicylic acid and lactic acid play, both of which have a particularly “wax-dissolving” effect and thus make it easier to remove dirt and earwax.

1. Why does earwax form in dogs and cats?
The formation of ear wax is completely normal in our four-legged friends and is important to protect the ear canal. However, if too much ear wax forms or it is not removed properly, there can be various causes:

shape and position of the ears
Breeds with drooping or very narrow ears (e.g. Cocker Spaniels or Persian cats) tend to have a moist environment in the ear. This can cause earwax to accumulate more quickly because ventilation is not optimal.

More dirt and dust
In animals that spend a lot of time outdoors, dirt can easily accumulate in the ears. This promotes the formation of excessive earwax.

allergies or skin diseases
Skin problems, parasites (e.g. ear mites) or allergies can stimulate earwax production and also lead to inflammation.

Inadequate or incorrect ear care
Cleaning too infrequently encourages deposits, while excessive or incorrect cleaning (e.g. with cotton swabs) can injure the ear or transport the dirt deeper into the ear canal.

2. When is ear cleaning necessary?
Itching and head shaking: Scratching or constant head shaking can be the first signs that your pet is feeling unwell.
Redness and swelling: If the auricle or ear canal is very red, there may be inflammation.
Unpleasant smell or discharge: If the ear smells strong or there is noticeable discharge (e.g. yellowish or brownish), a professional examination by a veterinarian is often advisable.
Excessive dirt deposits: Regularly checking the ear may reveal deposits. If these occur frequently or the ear looks dirty, it is advisable to clean it.
3. How do you properly clean the ears of dogs and cats?
Preparation

To clean your ears, use special ear cleaners that often contain salicylic acid and lactic acid. Both substances are “ear wax removers” and help to liquefy or dissolve ear wax and dirt.
Make sure the product is suitable for animals and read the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Also have soft cloths or cotton pads ready (not traditional cotton swabs, as these can injure the ear canal or push dirt deeper into the ear canal).
step-by-step instructions

Restrain the animal: Make sure your dog or cat is in a quiet environment. Hold the animal gently but firmly so that it does not move too much.
Use ear cleaner: Apply the recommended amount of ear cleaner into the external ear canal. A quick massage at the base of the ear can help to evenly distribute the product and loosen the earwax.
Massage: Gently massage the ear from the outside. This helps the earwax to come off the walls of the ear canal more easily.
Allow head shaking: Then allow your pet to shake its head calmly. This will shake out the loosened ear wax.
Blot: Use a soft cloth or cotton ball and gently wipe any visible dirt and excess cleaner from the ear. Do not penetrate deeply into the ear canal to avoid injury.
frequency of cleaning

Most animals only need their ears cleaned every few weeks or months, depending on their disposition and the level of dirt.
In cases of chronic ear problems or certain breeds with sensitive ears, more frequent cleaning, recommended by your veterinarian, may be beneficial.
4. When to go to the vet?
If you notice signs of more serious problems such as severe itching, swelling, redness, noticeable (purulent) discharge or pain in your pet, you should definitely see a veterinarian. The veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis, prescribe specific medication and carry out further tests if necessary.

5. prevention and regular care
Check: Check your four-legged friend's ears regularly, ideally once a week. This way you can detect dirt and abnormalities early on.
Keep your ears dry: After bathing or swimming, moisture and bacteria can remain in your ears. Therefore, dry your ears carefully to avoid creating a warm, humid environment that encourages earwax buildup.
Diet and allergies: Common ear problems can be caused by allergies. A suitable diet and avoiding allergens can help keep the ears healthy.
Regular visits to the vet: A check-up at the vet is advisable, especially for animals with chronic ear problems. This way, possible inflammation or allergies can be detected and treated early.
Conclusion
Ear wax is a natural and necessary part of ear hygiene in dogs and cats. Problems usually only arise when the secretion gets out of hand or stubborn dirt builds up. With the right technique and suitable ear cleaners - especially those that contain salicylic acid and lactic acid and have a "dirt-removing" effect - excess ear wax can be gently removed. However, care must be taken to avoid injuries or infections. If in doubt or if symptoms are severe, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian to have the cause of the excessive ear wax or the pain in the ear professionally clarified.

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