Cat’s Ears are powerful sensory organs and they can hear both higher and lower frequencies than us. Listening is among the main ways that cats orient themselves, and we don’t want it to be affected in any way. To maintain a cat’s ears hygiene is very important, and for this, you need to use the Best Cat Ear Cleaner to clean your feline’s ears.
Cats usually do a really good job of cleaning themselves, but sometimes they may need a hand to clean places that are hard to reach, like ears. Cleaning your cat’s ears is not a difficult task, and it does not require any special type of equipment for the same, all you need is a good quality cat ear cleaning solution and some cotton balls.
What’s the best cat ear cleaner in 2023?
Quick Summary:
- Best Overall: ZYMOX Otic Pet Ear Treatment with Hydrocortisone
- Vet Recommended: ZYMOX Otic Plus Ear Solution and Cleaner
- Best Value: Hartz UltraGuard Ear Mite Treatment for Cats
- Best Cleaner Wipes: Petpost Pet Ear Cleaner Wipes for Cats
- Worth a Mention: Pet King Brands Zymox Ear Cleaner
Why is Cat Ear Cleaning Essential?
Cat ear cleaning is an essential part to maintain a cat’s hygiene. The structure of the cat’s ear canal makes it very difficult for anything trapped inside to be expelled without cleaning. If the trapped material is not removed, then it may cause itchiness and ear infection. This makes it very important to clean the cat’s ear on a regular basis.
It is also important how often you clean the cat’s ears because it is recommended to clean the cat’s ears regular basis, but over-cleaning may cause irritation in the ear canal which may cause an ear infection. So it is also to maintain a proper schedule of cleaning your cat’s ears by inspecting them and cleaning them only when it is required with the best cat ear cleaner solutions.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites of 2023
Best Overall
Editor’s Pick
Affordable Pick
The 11 Best Cat Ear Cleaners – Reviews 2023
1. ZYMOX Otic Pet Ear Treatment with Hydrocortisone
ZYMOX Ear Cleaner with Hydrocortisone is our pick for the best cat ear cleaner because it helps in managing the problematic ears of cats of all ages. It is also effective and can be used for other pets as well. This cat ear cleaning solution is made with Zymox’s patented formula which is safe and gentle and alternative to traditional therapy.
On using this cat’s ear solution it instantly starts working to clean the cat’s ears. The solution helps to get rid of accumulated debris and reduces the possibility of irritation. It can easily treat inflammation of the external ear caused by bacterial, viral, and yeast infections.
This Zymox Cat Ear Cleaner can be used to clean problematic ears. Its easy application solution allows it to be used daily whenever required, and you also do not need any traumatic pre-cleaning before using this cat ear cleaner. The natural enzymes present in this solution maximize the cleaning power of this solution, which is also very safe for your cat’s ears.
To conclude, we think this is the overall best cat ear cleaner.
Pros:
- Can be used for all ages of cats and dogs as well as other animals
- Does not require pre-cleaning
- Available in 3 different bottle capacities; 1.24, 4, and 8 ounces
- Natural Enzymes used in the solution which improves the cleaning power
Cons:
- The solution of this cat ear cleanser is sticky, this makes stains if it falls on clothes
2. ZYMOX Otic Plus Ear Solution and Cleaner
Here’s another cat ear cleaner from Zymox as this brand is one of the best brands which manufacturers Pets Ear Care products. ZYMOX Otic Plus Ear Solution is the best vet-recommended cat ear cleaner because it is specifically formulated for cleaning cats and dogs to manage problematic ears.
Similar to the previous Zymox Ear Cleanser, this solution also uses a patented formula which is a safe and gentle, and natural alternative to traditional therapies. Its Octic plus system helps in cleaning the underlying bacteria as it can penetrate the bacteria’s protective biofilm. Also, 1% Hydrocortisone used in the solution makes it soothing to the cat’s ear’s while cleaning.
This cat ear cleaner does not require any pre-cleaning and required to be used once a day every week for better results and good hygiene of the cat’s ear. The solution can be easily used for cleaning the cat’s ears as a nozzle tip is provided on the top of the bottle.
You can buy this cat cleanser which comes in a 3.8 inches high bottle, which makes it easy to hold while you are using it to clean your cat’s ears. The amount of solution in this cat cleanser is 1.25 ounces, and it can be used for many times for cleaning your cat’s ears.
Pros:
- Octic plus system helps in deep cleaning
- The enzymatic solution maximizes the cleaning power
- Nozzle tip for easy application
- Instant action
- No pre-cleaning required
Cons:
- A thick and sticky solution makes after cleaning process harder
3. Hartz UltraGuard Ear Mite Treatment for Cats
Hartz UltraGuard Ear Mite is the most affordable cat ear cleaner and the best ear mite cleaner for cats on our list. Make sure that you don’t use this solution on a routine basis, as it is made specifically for the cat’s ear mite treatment.
It is available in a set of 3 tubes which contain 100 drops each. These three different tubes can be used for three different treatment purposes. The dosage of this ear mite[2] treatment solution depends upon the weight of your cat. Also, make sure that you don’t use this mite treatment solution on kittens lesser than 12 weeks old.
This ear mite treatment solution relieves your cats by killing the mites and other parasites residing in its Ear Canal. Aloe Vera present in its solution also helps in soothing the irritating skin of the cat’s ear canal.
Pros:
- Kills mites from cat’s ear canal
- Available at affordable price
- Includes 3 different treatments
- Soothes ear’s irritating skin
Cons:
- Cannot be used for general cleaning purpose of cat’s ears
4. Zymox Ear Solution with 0.5-Percent Hydrocortisone
This cat cleaning solution from Zymox is LP3 enzyme system based which has 0.5 percent of Hydrocortisone. It can be used to treat a cat’s problematic ears if your cat is suffering from any infection. The LP3 enzyme present in it increases the cleaning power. It also soothes irritating skin and also relieves any inflammation in the cat’s ear canal.
This cat ear cleaner comes in a small handy bottle of 3.8 inches and has a nozzle tip which makes it easy to use for cleaning your cat’s ear. The bottle contains 1.25 ounces of Ear Cleaning solution which is enough for using it at least 150 times. In problematic ears, it is recommended to be used once daily for seven days to completely treat your cat’s ears.
You can use this Ear solution for cleaning without pre-cleaning the cat’s ears. It will instantly work and clean and remove any trapped debris from the cat’s ear canal. The Hydrocortisone helps in treating the problematic ears and also prevents any infections by cleaning the cat’s ear canal completely.
Pros:
- Natural enzyme used in this cat ear cleaning solution increases cleaning power
- No pre-cleaning required
- Effective in treating problematic cat’s ears
- Soothes irritating skin
- Relieves from any inflammation
Cons:
- Not recommended for daily use
5. Pet King Brands Zymox Ear Cleaner
Zymox cat ear cleaner has a non-toxic solution that helps in cleaning problematic ears. It not only cleans the cat’s ears but its Lactoferrin, Lactoperoxidase, and Lysozyme formula helps in the prevention of any infection.
Zymox Ear Cleanser does not have any harsh chemicals so it won’t harm your cat’s ears in any way. It also leaves a fresh fragrance once it has been used to clean the cat’s ears. In addition to cleaning any debris from the ear, it also provides a soothing effect.
It is available in four different packages, so if you want more than one bottle of this Zymox Ear Cleanser, then you can purchase it. The different packages in which it is available are Pack of 2, Pack of 3, Pack of 4, and a single pack of a 4-ounce bottle.
Pros:
- Non-toxic Ear Cleanser
- Smells fresh after cleaning ears
- Nozzle tip provided on the bottle for easy application
- Soothes any inflammation in the Ears
Cons:
- Not suitable for a few types of cats. Therefore, it is recommended to test it out first before purchasing
6. Curaseb Antiseptic Ear Flush for Cat Ear Infection
If your cat is having an ear infection then Curaseb Antiseptic cat ear cleaner is the best option from this list for cleaning your cat’s ear and treat its problematic ears. This ear cleaning solution also has multiple features such as Anti-yeast, Anti-bacterial, and Anti-fungal as it has a Broad Spectrum Veterinary formula.
The proprietary formula of Curaseb used in this cat ear cleaning solution can fight even stubborn ear infection and help in relieving. It contains prescription-grade Ketoconazole which provides antifungal, anti-yeast properties and Tris-EDTA makes it Antibacterial.
Besides the cat’s ears, it can also be used on other parts of the skin, its antimicrobial formula treats various skin problems like rashes, scaly patches, and acne. Aloe Vera used in this solution also soothes irritating skin.
Pros:
- Highly effective in cat’s ear infection
- Fresh fragrance smell, as it deodorizes cat’s year after cleaning
- Anti-Yeast, Anti-Bacterial, and Anti-Fungal properties
- Can be also used for normal skin problems
Cons:
- No hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation
7. Bodhi Ear Cleaner Solution for Cats
The Bodhi Ear Cleaner Solution is a plant & botanical-based cat ear cleaner that provides instant, soothing, topical, relief to pets suffering from itching, inflamed ears from ear-mite, yeast infections, flea bites & other ear irritants. This also makes it one of the best natural ear cleaners for cats.
The fresh eucalyptus used in the formula provides a pleasant smell without the use of any artificial fragrance. It is also available in two variants, one with aloe vera and one without. The natural aloe vera formula is more effective in providing immediate relief to stop chewing, and licking ears while maintaining pet ear health.
This natural cat ear cleaner is formulated to naturally soothe and clean your cat’s ears gently. The eucalyptus extracts work effectively as a natural cleanser that works to loosen and remove grease., grime, debris, and stubborn earwax buildup. It also has anti-microbial properties that deodorize the cat’s ears and stops stinky or smelly ears.
Pros:
- All-natural formula
- Gently removes dirt and ear-wax
- Relieves itchy ears
Cons:
- Not very effective for mites since it is a natural product
8. Petpost Pet Ear Cleaner Wipes for Cats
If you are looking for grooming essential cat ear cleaner to clean your cat’s ears on a regular basis, then Petpost Pet Ear Cleaner is one of the best product for you. Keep note that this is not a cat ear cleaning solution so it cannot treat problematic cat’s ear, however, being one of the best cat ear wipes, it will help in cleaning your kitty’s ears gently and effectively.
Using this ear cleaner wipe on a regular basis, you can prevent your cat’s ears from any mites or infections. It is also safer than the cat ear cleaner solutions for routine cleaning of your cat’s ears.
These cat ear wipes are pre-soaked Coconut oil, Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Fragrance, and other ingredients which make it soothing to the cat’s irritating ear after cleaning. You can use these cat wipes to easily remove ear wax and other dirt from the cat’s ear accessible using the wipe.
Pros:
- Safer than traditional treatments and harsh chemicals
- Can be used for routine cleaning
- Fragrance used in this ear cleaner wipe deodorizes cat’s ears after cleaning
- Soothes irritating skin
Cons:
- Cannot be used to treat problematic ear
- Not effective in mite treatment
9. Vetoquinol Ear Cleansing Solution
If you are looking for a cat ear cleanser that is suitable for daily use, then Vetoquinol’s Ear Cleansing Solution is the best option for you. This cat ear cleaner also has Aloe Vera in it which provides its natural soothing properties. Vetoquinor Ear Cleansing solution cleans the cat’s ear from any trapped debris and prevents and treats the most common ear problems.
Its constituents not only cleans the cat’s ear canal but it also dries, acidifies, and deodorizes the cat’s ear. It dries the cat’s ear canal so fewer efforts are required after cleaning, and as it acidifies after the cleaning process to prevent any infection, so healthy hygiene is maintained for a longer time. After cleaning the cat’s ears, it leaves a fresh smell as this cat cleansing solution also has deodorizing properties.
This cat ear cleaner is available in four different sizes on Amazon to purchase from. You can buy 4 ounces, 8 Ounces, 16 ounces, and 1-gallon bottle sizes. The smaller bottle sizes have a nozzle tip making it easy for the application of cleaning. You have to use a different Nozzle bottle for a 1-gallon bottle size for cleaning.
Pros:
- Can be used for daily routine
- Deodorizes cat’s ear canal
- Available in smaller as well as large bottle sizes
- Nozzle tip on the bottle for easy application
Cons:
- Ineffective or less effective if your cat is already having an ear infection
10. VetWELL Otic Rinse Cat Ear Cleaner
VetWELL’s EarWELL Otic Cleansing Solution for cleaning cat’s ears is formulated to gently clean, deodorize, acidity, and dry your cat’s ears. It can be also used on a daily basis for routine cleaning and grooming of your cat.
This Veterinarian Formulated cat ear cleaner also has Aloe Vera in it which soothes the irritating skin. The fragrance used in it keeps your cat’s ears odor-free as it deodorizes the cat’s ear canal after cleaning.
This cat ear cleaning solution will not only clean the ears from trapped debris but also kills any mites residing in the cat’s ear canal. It also provides relief from any inflammation caused in the cat’s ears and also treats and prevents infections.
Pros:
- Safe for daily use
- Treats and prevents infections
- Treats and prevents Ear Infection
- Fragrance eliminates odor and gives a pleasant smell
Cons:
- It may not work on all types of problematic ears of cats
11. Pet MD Otic Clean Ear Cleanser for Cats
Here’s our final product of the top 11 list of cat ear cleaners. The Pet MD’s Otic Clean Ear Cleaner is a perfect ear cleaner for cats as well as dogs. This ear cleaner uses a gentle formula, which can be used for all ages of cats so that you can clean your kitten’s ears without being worried about harming her.
It is a Veterinarian formulated cat ear cleaner which is effective in treating infections caused by mites, yeast, or other microorganisms. It also soothes irritating skin and controls itching with the help of Aloe present in it.
This cat ear cleaner is soft and gentle enough that it is safe for daily use. The ingredients present in it helps in eliminating the wax and consequently removes any trapped debris, which also makes it one of the best cat ear wax cleaner. It also has a Sweet Pea Scented fragrance in it which gives it a pleasant smell and deodorizes your cat’s ears. Besides cleaning and deodorizing the cat’s ears, it dries and acidifies the ear canal which prevents in any itching or infection.
Pros:
- Safe to use for Large Kittens as well as Kittens
- Treat infection caused by mites, yeast, itching
- Fragrance used in this solution deodorizes cat’s ear
- Aloe Vera soothes irritating skin
Cons:
- Contains SD Alcohol 40 which might be irritating on the already inflamed ear canal
Buyers’ Guide: Cat Ear Cleaner
If you are going through a hard time in deciding which cat ear cleaner to buy for your cat then go through this guide, it might help you to choose the best cat ear cleaner for your feline.
However, it is highly recommended to take a bit of advice from the Local Vet if your cat is suffering from any serious problem.
For a detailed guide, you can refer to our earlier article on How to Clean a Cat’s Ears?
How to Choose the Best Cat Ear Cleaner?
Your cat may feel uncomfortable if you selected the wrong ear cleaner, which you want. But not everyone is a vet, and neither you have to be, here are a few points which you should consider before purchasing a cat ear cleaner so that it is safe as well as effective on her.
Purpose
Before purchasing the cat ear cleaner, you must know the purpose for which you are going to use it. The cat ear cleaning solutions are made to serve a specific purpose. If it is made for treating mites, then it would be highly effective for the same rather than using a general-purpose cat ear cleaning solution.
Similarly, if you want a cat ear cleanser for daily cleaning and grooming of your cat’s ears, then cat ear wipes are the best option. However, you may also use a cat ear solution specifically made for general use. Also, ear cleaning solution which is made to treat infections is to be preferred when your cat has an infection, using it for general purpose is not recommended.
Ingredients
Knowing the ingredients of the cat’s ear cleaning solution is also important before you buy a cat ear cleaning solution for your feline. It becomes mandatory when your cat is specifically allergic to any constituent. You can only know about the allergies of your cat t a specific substance by past experiences. So, buy a cat ear cleaner that does not have an ingredient to which your cat is allergic.
Quantity
The amount or quantity of the cat ear cleaning solution depends on your usage. If you have multiple cats then you need to buy a cat ear cleaner in more quantity or a bottle that has a higher ounce of cats ear cleaning solution. Also, if you are trying a specific cat’s ear cleaning solution for the first time, then you should go for a smaller bottle.
For a comparative purpose, you may consider that on average, one ounce of the cat’s ear cleaning solution can be used about 60 times for one cat.
Cat’s Age
Cat’s age is also important before choosing a cat’s ear cleaning solution. Kittens have more delicate and sensitive skin compared to older cats, so if you are buying a cat’s ear cleaning solution make sure that is safe to use for kittens.
Can I use a dog ear cleaner for cats?
There’s no one-word answer to this question. There are a few types of dog ear cleaners that can be used for cats. But not all dog ear cleaners are suitable for cats. This depends on the constituents of the ear cleaning solution.
As an example, few dog ear cleaning solution has tea tree oil in it, to which they are allergic. Cats also cannot detoxify essential oils, so ear cleaners that have these ingredients in them are not recommended for cats.
Is Hydrogen Peroxide safe for cleaning Cat’s Ears?
Hydrogen Peroxide or cat ear cleaning solution containing Hydrogen Peroxide is not recommended for normal use as it may irritate the skin of some cats. It may also be painful to an already-infamed ear canal. You should only use a cat ear cleaning solution with Hydrogen Peroxide if it is recommended by the local veterinarian.
Conclusion
That’s all readers, I have intentionally let the cat out of the bag so you can choose a safe and effective cat ear cleaner. I hope that now you will be able to make a safe decision and buy a perfect ear cleaner for your feline.
References:
- Weir, M. (n.d.-b). Instructions for Ear Cleaning and Administering Ear Medication in Cats | VCA Animal Hospital. Vca. Retrieved September 2, 2022, from VCA
- Ear Mites: Tiny Critters that can Pose a Major Threat. (2021b, August 19). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Retrieved September 2, 2022, from Cornell University