Eye & Ear Medications - Pet Medications

Applying Ear Drops and Ear Ointments to Dogs and Cats

Before administering ear medication, the ears may need to be cleaned. Your veterinarian may recommend a cleanser or you can use moistened swabs.

Warm up ear medications that have been kept in the refrigerator. Use a hot water bath rather than a microwave, or leave the medication out until it reaches room temperature. Your pet appreciates receiving ear medications at body temperature.

To apply the medication, push back the ear flap and gently position the applicator or tip of the tube in the base of the ear. Discharge the number of drops or amount of ointment prescribed. Gently massage the base of the ear with your fingers to help the medication work its way into the ear canal.

Do not massage firmly and do not rub the ear firmly. Do not let the pet scratch or rub its ear firmly either. Why? The 7th (Facial) and 8th (Vestibulocochlear) cranial nerves travel together and are easily damaged. When these nerves are stretched, or irritated by rubbing, your pet can lose hearing and equilibrium. Some pets, especially cats, develop Horner's syndrome: the pupil of the eye constricts, the 3rd eyelid elevates, the upper lid drops. Other pets lose their balance, become ataxic (uncoordinated), circle and fall over. Fortunately, these symptoms are preventable if you don't rub or massage too firmly.

Note: This information is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. It is recommended that you work with your veterinary technician to develop a technique that is safe for you and your pet.

Applying Eye Drops and Ointments to Dogs and Cats

Ask your vet if the medication stings. If it does, ask if you can put artificial tears in the eye first to decrease the stinging sensation. For example, Pilocarpine, a medication used for glaucoma, is initially irritating, especially to a dry eyeball. It's more comfortable for your pet if you put artificial tears in its eye about 5 minutes before instilling Pilocarpine.

Before administering eye medication, be sure that the eye lids are clear of discharge. Ask your veterinarian if a special eye wash is needed, or you can use warm water on a cotton ball to gently cleanse around the eyes. Next, use your thumb and forefinger to open the eyelids. With your other hand, place the 1 to 2 drops or a tiny amount of ointment on the eye or the pink tissue around the eye. Your pet will blink and the medication will cover the entire eye.

Your goal is to put liquids or ointment into the corner of the eye or into a pocket formed by slightly pulling down the eyelid. Do not aim for the center of the eye and avoid touching the eye with the container of medication. Use the least restraint possible. Cats, especially, detest restraint. Relax your breathing; if you're calm your pet will be calm. Always give a fantastic treat when the medicine has been applied.