Cat & Dog - Ear Cleansers

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Ear cleansers contain solvents that loosen wax, infected material and dirt in the ear canal so that it may be gently removed. Ear cleansers are used for treatment of otitis externa (inflammation and infection of the ear) along with ear preparations to control the infection. Otitis externa can be very painful and your pet may resent having its ears treated.

Bacteria, yeast, and mites that may cause otitis externa prefer to grow in a waxy environment. Regular use (one to two times weekly) of an ear cleanser will help to keep your pet's ears clean and wax free and is particularly important in breeds with long pendulous ears.

How do I give this medication?

• Apply this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Your veterinary surgeon will show you how to apply the medication to your pet's ears. Do not apply more than a few drops of medication and gently massage the fluid down the ear canal. Use cotton wool to wipe away any excess fluid and wax. Do not use cotton wool buds to clean your pet's ears.
• Ear cleansers may need to be applied twice daily at commencement of treatment. When the condition is under control, they may need to be used one to two times weekly; the frequency of administration will depend on the severity of the condition in your pet.
• Your pet may also need other ear medication. Your veterinary surgeon will advise you on the time interval between applying different treatment to your pet's ears.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day and try not to miss giving any doses.
• DO NOT apply more medicine than directed and DO NOT apply the medicine more often than directed.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential side effects

• It is very important that ear drops or ointment are not applied to the ear canal if the eardrum is damaged (perforated). If your pet has a problem with its ears, your veterinary surgeon will look down the ears with an auriscope/otoscope to ensure that the eardrum is intact before prescribing any aural medication.
• Side effects can occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.