Normal healthy ears are odour free, pink and free of excessive wax or debris.
Normal, healthy ears simply require routine checking and removal of wax and debris that may collect in the outer creases. This can be easily done using an Avena Sativa Wipe.
Hair in the ear canal is generally not a problem unless excessive wax collects or the air cannot circulate well into the ear – leave it alone unless a problem develops. Remind your groomer to follow these instructions as well. If it isn’t broken, then don’t fix it, is a rule of thumb in ear care.
What To Do If an Ear Problem Develops?
Common hallmarks of an ear problem include; redness, odour and itchiness. A discharge may or may not be evident. Types of discharge include: pus, greasiness, or a brown/black waxy build-up. Animals that swim or have flopped ears, skin conditions, hormonal imbalances or allergies are more prone to developing problem ears. Ears affected by an allergy may be hot, red, itchy and have a dry, scaly appearance. Cats do not have ear problems as commonly as dogs, but the same symptoms will be evident.
To Make Things Worse...
Dogs and cats like to scratch, lick, head shake, rub & roll when something on their skin bothers them (ear canals are lined with skin!). Very quickly, often within hours, a small irritation can become a major health concern. If you observe ear (or skin) issues developing, best advice – take your pet to a veterinarian right away.
Caring for ears that are infected, painful or under veterinary care: it is very important to follow your veterinarian’s advice on how they want ears cleaned and treated. Often times this procedure is first done in the veterinary clinic while your pet is sedated, due to the painful nature of the procedure and to protect the ear drum.
Instill ear cleaner directly into the ear canal, only with your veterinarian’s recommendation and direction on how to properly and safely do this procedure. If your veterinarian has prescribed ear drops along with full cleaning at home, wait 15 minutes after cleaning to apply medications. If using only wipes, there is no need to wait to apply meds. Keep your follow up appointments.
How to clean the ear flap and external surfaces of a dirty ear:
Gently pull back the ear flap to expose the external surface of the ear. Use the Avena Sativa pre- moistened cloth wipes, wrapped around your finger. Wipe the ear folds and ear flap, changing the wipe surface as you go. If dirt and wax are thick, use the wipe in conjunction with the Avena Sativa Cleanser solution, by adding more moisture to the wipe. Avoid leaving the ears too wet.
About Avena Sativa Cleanser and Wipes:
Avena Sativa contains oat extract, which is a naturally soothing, purifying and cleansing ingredient. In addition, it contains ceramides, which are natural moisturizing components of the protective outer layer of the skin. Avena Sativa does not sting and contains no harsh cleansers, alcohol or fragrance.
Avena Sativa Cleanser is ideal for use as a gentle cleanser for skin and ears or to use along with topical medications. Use on the outer ear folds and ear flap, feet, skin folds, anal area, etc. Available in convenient soft wipes or as a liquid, in a squeeze tipped bottle. The wipes are perfect for small clean ups and for use before and after instilling ear medications. The wipes and solution are best used together to maintain problem ears.
ADDITIONAL TIPS ABOUT EAR CARE:
Start handling ears when they are pup-pies or kittens – this familiarizes them with the touch
Always wipe out ears well after bathing and swimming – don’t leave them wet
Never insert a cotton tip stick or anything smaller than you finger into the ear
AVENA SATIVA CLEANSER
Calms hot, red, irritated ears
Gently breaks up wax for easy removal
Is an effective degreaser and deodorizer
Helps to dry moist ears