21/01/2026
How often should you flush your pet’s ears? 👂🐶
In short… you don’t need to in healthy ears…even if you see wax.
Dogs and cats have a natural cleaning mechanism called epithelial migration, where wax and debris gradually move OUT of the ear canal on their own.
But routine ear flushing to remove wax when grooming or bathing can backfire.
Why?
Most ear cleaners on the market contain ingredients like:
• Strong acids
• Propylene glycol
• Alcohol
In sensitive pets, these cleaners can sting, worsen irritation, and may trigger contact reactions. And whereas they can be used in specific conditions, routine use should be avoided.
Even flushing itself can be a problem. Frequent cleaning can irritate the ear canal, remove the ear’s natural protective wax layer, and disrupt the normal ear environment. So frequent flushing can actually be the cause of some animals ear infections.
So when IS ear flushing appropriate?
Ear flushing should be reserved for pets with:
• Infections
• Allergies
• Chronic inflammation
• Other ear disease
In these cases, choosing the right flush is an art, because the wrong product can cause serious discomfort and complications.
If your pet has a discharge, odour, itching, head shaking, or pain, your best move is to have them checked out by your vet.
At Pet Point Dermatology we run and Advanced Skin Clinic where we help dogs with itching and ear disease.
If you’d like to work with us give us a call or WhatsApp: 712-3297 🐱💛
For those that want the science ⬇️
Removal of Cerumen not recommended:
https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/examination-ear
Epithelial Migration:
Tabacca NE et al. Epithelial migration on the canine tympanic membrane (2011)
Propylene Glycol & Contact Allergies:
https://www.msdvetmanual.com/ear-disorders/diseases-of-the-pinna/aural-contact-dermatitis-in-animals
Alcohol causing irritation:
https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/dermatology/topical-therapy-for-otitis-externa/
Overcleaning healthy ears
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/how-clean-your-dogs-ears
