Cats’ ears may not look like much, but they are immensely important to the animal’s wellbeing and survival. They are also extremely fragile. Many cats suffer from irreversible damage due to over-the-counter ear cleaning products and uneducated practice. Therefore, professional ear cleaning is a must for every cat.
An Important and Complicated Ear
Feline ears are extremely complex and serve a variety of advanced functions. They can hear sounds nearly two octaves higher than humans, with a much wider range of detection. Have you ever noticed your cat’s ears rotating? They do so in order to decipher the exact location of a sound. Furthermore, the feline ear grants cats the grace and balance that we have always associated with cats. This is due to fluid-filled canals in the inner ear that create an equilibrium. A cat with functional ears should always land on their feet.
Conditions That Require a Vet Visit
Cats may develop more clinical ear conditions. Infections are fairly uncommon, but they still occur. They are more prevalent in breeds such as Persians and Himalayans where the ears, nose, and throat are in very close proximity. Your vet can provide a diagnosis and recommend medication for ear infections.
Cats may also develop ear mites, which are parasites that live inside an animal’s ear and feed on tissue. Their waste appears as a scattering of small dark spots inside the ear. Waste may be cleaned safely and gently, but a vet visit is necessary to get rid of living mites.
Cleaning and Sensitivity
Cats do have a self-cleaning mechanism, but wax and debris will continue to build up over time. Occasional ear cleanings are necessary, but they must be done in a safe and gentle manner. Preferably, this would be done by a professional groomer.
Because cats’ ears are so complex, they are susceptible to damage during cleaning. You can flush out a dog’s ear, but “flushing out” a cat’s ear with water can lead to irreversible harm. It may drain out some of the cat’s beneficial fluids. Ultimately, this can lead to worsened balance and/or permanent head tilt.
Many ear cleaning products on the market do not take feline sensitivity into account. They may contain ingredients such as tea tree oil, alcohol, benzoyl peroxide, or essential oils. All of these ingredients are extremely toxic to cats.
Zymox Ear Solution
Zymox provides non-toxic and non-invasive ear cleaning products for both cats and dogs. Its natural ingredients provide both maintenance and protection of clean and healthy ears. Zymox products do not contain harsh chemicals, leaving your furry friend’s delicate ears looking and smelling fresh. Claws N Paws Day Spa proudly uses Zymox Ear Solution to clean both cats’ and dogs’ ears.
Claws N Paws Day Spa owns and operates a full-service grooming salon in Fountain Valley, California. For more information about these services, including safe and gentle ear cleanings, visit out location or contact us at 714-962-1005.