With their floppy and fur-filled ears, dogs and cats have natural breeding grounds for ear infections. These itchy, painful yeast infections plague our pet population, despite the millions of dollars owners spend each year on vet prescribed or OTC treatments. Without proper treatment, chronic ear infections can cause permanent damage and hearing loss.
Homemade solutions, applied regularly, are a good preventive measure for your pet's ears.
Here's one recipe for a pet ear solution
- 6 ounces isopropyl alcohol
- 1/2 tablespoon boric acid powder
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon generic betadyne antiseptic
Here's another …
- 16 ounces isopropyl alcohol or witch hazel
- 4 tablespoons boric acid powder
- 16 drops gentian violet 1% solution (available from your pharmacist)
The rubbing alcohol, witch hazel and vinegar help to keep the ear dry. Boric acid soothes the ear, while the betadyne or gentian violet treat the infection.
Preparation and Application for both recipes for pet ear solution
Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Then, using an applicator bottle, fill the ear and massage at the base. Wipe clean with a soft cloth or cotton ball. Repeat, this time without massaging the ear.
To cure infections, clean your pet's ears twice a day for one week, then once a day for one week. To keep your pet's ears healthy, clean them apply weekly thereafter.
