How to Clean Your Ferret's Ears
You will need to clean your ferret's ears at least once every couple weeks to prevent wax buildup. Some ferrets will build up wax faster and need their ears cleaned more often, others will need it less.
Excessive ear wax has a strong odor, is a breeding ground for ear mites, and can lead to ear infections. Normal ear wax is red, brown, or gold colored. Black, crumbly ear wax is a sign of ear mites, and you will need to schedule a veterinary appointment.
To clean your ferret's ears, follow these steps:
- Warm the ear cleaning solution slightly so it is more comfortable for your ferret. (You wouldn't want cold liquid in your ears, and neither does she!)
- Scruff her to hold her head immobile.
- Gently squirt a few drops into one ear.
- Massage the base of the ear to work the cleaner down in and loosen wax.
- Moisten a cotton swab with cleaner and gently wipe the outer ear, including all of the folds.
- Use a clean cotton swab to clean out the base of the ear until all wax is gone.
- Repeat with the other ear.
- Follow it all up with a treat!
You may be concerned that you are going to hurt your ferret's ears, but as long as you are gentle, it will be fine. Ferrets have an L-shaped ear canal, and with the proper techniques, injury is unlikely.
The five to ten minutes you spend cleaning your ferret's ears will help to keep her healthy and free of ear mites.
