A cat's ears are an extraordinary organ. They can rotate up to 180 degrees, pick up frequencies that the human ear cannot even perceive, and pinpoint a sound with millimeter precision.

They are also, if neglected, one of the areas most prone to infections, mites, and earwax buildup. Regular, gentle cleaning is one of the most important acts of care you can do for your cat — and one of the most underestimated.

This guide explains how to do it properly, what to use, and when it's time to visit the vet.

First of all: does a cat clean its own ears?

Yes — partly.

Cats use their hind paws to scratch around their ears and remove superficial dirt. But the inside of the ear flap, and especially the ear canal, is out of their reach.

That's where earwax accumulates over time — along with dust, environmental debris, and, in more serious cases, mites and bacteria.

How often intervention is needed varies from cat to cat: some have naturally clean ears that require little to no intervention, while others — especially breeds with large, open ears like the Maine Coon or Devon Rex — tend to accumulate more easily.

The general rule: check your cat's ears at least once a week, and clean them when necessary.

Signs that it's time to clean

Don't wait until the problem becomes obvious. These are the signs to monitor regularly:

• Dark or brownish earwax visible inside the ear flap — small amounts are normal, but if it accumulates, it should be removed
• Unpleasant odor coming from the ears — may indicate an ongoing bacterial or fungal infection
• Frequent scratching around the ears or head shaking — signs of itching or discomfort
• Redness or swelling of the inner ear flap
• Dark, grainy discharge, similar to coffee grounds — often associated with ear mites (Otodectes cynotis)

If you notice any of these signs persistently, it's advisable to visit a vet before attempting to clean them yourself — there might be an infection that requires specific treatment.

What NOT to use to clean your cat's ears

Before talking about what to use, it's important to know what to avoid — because damage from wrong products can be serious.

❌ Cotton swabs (Q-tips) This is the first mistake almost everyone makes. Cotton swabs do not remove earwax — they push it deeper into the ear canal, compacting it and potentially causing damage to the eardrum. Never use them.

❌ Water Moisture remaining in the ear after cleaning with water creates an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal proliferation. A cat's ears must remain dry.

❌ Alcohol and aggressive disinfectant products These irritate the delicate skin of the ear canal. Although seemingly effective, they can cause inflammation that worsens the situation.

❌ Scented products with synthetic fragrances Ears are a particularly sensitive area — both for the skin and the sense of smell. Intense artificial fragrances can locally irritate and significantly disturb the cat's sense of smell.

What to use: natural ear cleaning products

Saline solution or specific ear cleaner for cats

For routine cleaning, a sterile saline solution is the safest starting point. It is gentle, non-irritating, and leaves no problematic residues.

Alternatively, there are specific ear cleaners for cats — based on botanical ingredients — that soften earwax and facilitate removal without harming the skin.

Soft gauze pads or cotton rounds

Not cotton swabs — gauze. Wrapped around your finger or held between your fingers, it allows you to gently clean the visible ear flap without risking pushing dirt inwards.

ShizenPet botanical dry shampoo — for the outer ear flap

The ShizenPet botanical dry shampoo can be used to keep the outer ear flap clean and fresh — the visible part of the ear, not the inner canal.

Sprayed onto a soft cotton pad (never directly into the ear), it gently removes superficial dirt, neutralizes odors thanks to ionized baking soda, and leaves the skin moisturized with botanical oils. Lick-safe formula — safe even if the cat scratches and then licks its paw.

How to clean your cat's ears: step by step

Before cleaning — make your cat comfortable

Timing is crucial. The cat must be calm and relaxed — after a meal, during a petting session, or when sleepy. Never try to clean the ears of an agitated or frightened cat: the risk of sudden movement can cause injury.

Gently wrap the cat in a towel if it tends to wriggle — a technique called "cat-burrito" that many vets use. Leave only the head exposed.

Step 1 — Observe before touching

Hold the cat still and illuminate the inside of the ear with a small flashlight. Assess the amount and color of the earwax before proceeding. If you see abnormal discharge, intense redness, or smell a strong odor, stop and contact your vet.

Step 2 — Apply the product to the pad

Spray the botanical dry shampoo (or saline solution) onto a soft cotton pad. Do not pour the product directly into the ear.

Step 3 — Clean the ear flap with gentle circular motions

With the soaked pad, clean the inside of the ear flap — the visible part reachable with your finger — with gentle circular motions. Never push inwards into the canal.

Change the pad whenever it gets dirty — do not re-use a dirty pad on the same area.

Step 4 — Let it air dry naturally

After cleaning, allow the ear to air dry. Do not use a hairdryer, do not wipe vigorously. The cat will probably shake its head — this is normal, and helps remove any residue.

Step 5 — Always reward

A reward after cleaning — their favorite snack — creates a positive association with the moment. With consistency, most cats learn to tolerate (and some even accept) ear cleaning without excessive stress.

How often to clean your cat's ears?

There is no universal answer — it depends on the cat.

The goal is not to clean as often as possible — it's to keep the ears balanced. Excessive cleaning can remove natural protective earwax and make the ear canal more vulnerable.

When to go to the vet

Home cleaning is maintenance — not therapy. There are situations where it is essential to rely on a professional:

• Abundant dark, grainy discharge (possible mite infestation)
• Very strong and persistent odor (possible bacterial or fungal infection)
• Redness, swelling, or pain when handled
• The cat shakes its head or compulsively scratches its ears
• Loss of balance or orientation

In these cases, the vet will perform an otoscopic examination and, if necessary, an ear swab to identify the problem and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Conclusion: small care, big difference

A cat's ears do a lot for them every day — they pick up signals we don't even perceive. The least we can do is keep them clean, gently and with the right products.

Regular, proper cleaning prevents most ear problems — and strengthens the bond of trust between you and your cat, one gesture of care at a time.

Because taking care of them is an everyday act of love. Even in the smallest details. 🌿

Read also: The cat always licks itself — but it's not enough. Here's why. | Summer and cats: common problems and how to deal with them