Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 5/4/2005

Question
Hi,
I'm sure you get this question all the time.

I have a female diabetic cat that has developed an ear infection in her right ear. I have been cleaning it out with baby wipes and q-tips trying to clear it up. Can you give me any suggestions on over the counter remedies to use? We go to our vet regularly for her diabeties but her next visit isnt for 2 weeks. Since it has gotten so expensive, taking her to our vert all the time, I was hoping you might have some over the counter remedies to try.  

Thanks a lot in advance I look forward to hearing from you.  

Answer
How do you know that the ear is infected if it hasn't been checked by the vet?  Many cats will get waxy ears normally.  If there is a drainage from the ear, that may indicate a middle ear problem or a polyp.  I cannot recommend anything specific until I know what the dagnosis actually is.

You can mix up a 50:50 mixture of regular vinegar and water to use as a flush daily until you get the cat in to be seen.