Do cats clean their own ears or do you have to do it for them?

Answer by  k0nok0 (224)

You may have to clean them with a q-tip each cat varies in cleanliness, ask a vet to show you how first so that you don't harm them.

Answer by  sfolk (12)

The black that you see in your cat's ears are ear mites. The best way to clean your cat's ears are to take a swab, dip the end in mineral oil. Take the swab and GENTLY clean the ears being careful not to go too far into the ear drum. Most cat's will not like this. Repeat for 5 days.

Answer by  smellycat22 (1129)

You should regularly clean your cat's ears with special ear cleansers. Dark discharge probably means ear mites so you should take him to a vet to get some treatment.

Answer by  SDuser (22)

A cat is not able to clean the inside of its ears sufficiently. If the cat's ears appear to be irritated and the cat is shaking its head repeatedly, the cat needs a visit to the veterinarian. It is possible the cat is suffering from ear mites, especially if the cat is clawing at them.