Many of us think that it is best to clean cat ears with a product like hydrogen peroxide. But, is this really the best option? Actually, there are a few things you should know about this method of cleaning out your cat’s ears. This article will teach you all about them and help you decide if hydrogen peroxide is the best way to clean cat ears.
The most common reason: that cats develop ear mites is because they are kept outside constantly. As a result, their ears can get dusty and mold build up around the base of the ears is very common. Cats that live indoors suffer from indoor pollution, which is just as bad for their ears as it is for humans. Your cat needs fresh air and sunlight to survive, so the dry, moldy dust in your house is harmful to your cat’s health. Peroxide is one of the disinfectants used to kill dust mites, so it works well for killing cat ear mites.
But, is this the safest way to clean cat ears? There have been studies that show that Peroxide can actually harm your cat’s hearing. Even though you may hear a small pop when the substance comes into contact with your cat’s ear, their hearing is not likely to be damaged. However, when the substance comes into contact with the membranes of the ear, the damage could be permanent. In most cases, temporary hearing damage can also occur.
Is it really necessary to use Peroxide? In many cases, the answer is no. Using Peroxide is a painless way to remove that disgusting buildup on your cat’s ears. However, if your cat has extremely dirty ears, it may be necessary to use Peroxide. It’s usually safe for domestic cats and dogs, but if you have wild animals in your home, they might be allergic to the substance.
Many people who clean cat ears are advocates of Peroxide as well: They use a cotton ball dipped in Peroxide to remove the gunk, making sure to clean behind the ear as well. This method works well, but many pet owners report a stinging sensation when the substance touches their cat’s face or the skin under the chin. A better option is to use a tissue or gauze soaked in Peroxide. If the irritation is severe, you can take them to the doctor to get it taken care of.
When you clean cat ears: keep in mind that using too much can be dangerous. If you must use a Peroxide product, do so gently. Try not to apply too much, and if you have any questions, consult your vet.
As always, a healthy cat should have clean cat ears, but if you notice symptoms, you should take your furry friend to the vet.
