What Medicine Does a Cat Need for Ear Wax Buildup?

Part of caring for your cat̵7;s health includes routine examination of his ears and, if necessary, removing earwax from them. A small amount of wax is normal, but if it becomes built up, your cat could get ear mites and infections. Your veterinarian can provide a prescription ear cleaner, but pet stores carry over-the-counter cleaners, and home remedies offer another option.

  1. Boric Acid

    • Many of the prescription cleaners as well as the over-the-counter preparations made to treat cat̵7;s ears use boric acid as the main ingredient. It is used as an antiseptic to treat humans and animals, and is an effective component for dissolving and clearing away earwax. Boric acid found as an ingredient on the label assures you that the brand you are considering will be effective.

    Salicylic Acid

    • Another widely used ingredient in most ear washes and medications for cats is salicylic acid. Used for centuries as a mild antibiotic, salicylic acid has also been effectively used in skin-care products to open clogged pores. Much like boric acid, these properties make it a good agent for dissolving earwax. A number of over-the-counter ear cleaners contain both salicylic and boric acids, but the presence of either one in an ear cleaner for your cat is useful.

    Oil of Eucalyptus

    • If you want to try a natural remedy for your cat̵7;s ear condition, oil of eucalyptus is one that has been included in herbal medicine. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a good treatment for ear mites. Historically it has been used to treat infection. Some commercial ear cleaners for cats contain oil of eucalyptus, but you can use it alone for home treatment.

    Mineral Oil

    • Mineral oil offers a useful choice in treating cats with a combination of earwax buildup and ear mites. Mineral oil dissolves earwax, allowing it to drain away. Once in the ear, it also suffocates the parasites, stopping them from spreading and causing further infection.