Do not clean a cat’s ears routinely unless a vet advises it. Redness, smell, discharge, swelling, pain or repeated head shaking can indicate a problem that needs examination before anything is put into the ear.
Check before you clean
PDSA advises veterinary assessment for suspected ear infection. Cleaning can be painful and may remove material the vet needs to examine. Tell the clinic about balance changes, hearing changes, scratching, recent medication and how quickly the signs appeared.
Use only the instructed product
If the vet recommends cleaning, use the cat-safe cleaner and amount they specify. Warm it in your hand, not with heat. Do not use water, oil, peroxide, alcohol, essential oils or leftover medicine, because the ear canal and eardrum may be damaged or inflamed.
Stay at the visible entrance
PDSA’s cleaning guidance says never to use cotton buds. Gently massage only as instructed, allow the cat to shake, and wipe the visible entrance with cotton wool or gauze. Never push material down the canal or restrain a frightened cat by force.
Separate grooming from treatment
The Cashmere Comb is for coat and grooming tasks; it does not include a diagnosis or ear-treatment plan. Keep grooming sessions short and contact the vet if cleaning causes pain, blood or worsening discharge.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked 13 September 2026.
