Guinea pigs develop earwax over time which needs to be cleaned up frequently. Parasites and harmful bacteria can multiply and thrive in your guinea pig’s ears if the earwax is accumulated over a period of time. As a result, serious health problems like head tilt (ear infection) and skin conditions around the ears can surface.
How to Clean Your Guinea pig’s Ears
Tools required
- Cotton buds
- Cotton pads
- Baby oil
- Blanket or towel
Step by Step Instructions
- Put a blanket for your guinea pig to stand on comfortably. You may work on a table top or on your lap.
- You may wrap your guinea pig in a blanket or a towel if he or she is a little wriggler.
- Gently wipe the inside of the ear with a soft cotton bud. Wipe outwards, not towards the ear canal.
- Avoid sticking a cotton bud into the ear canal.
- For the accumulated dirt which is difficult to clean, dab a clean cotton bud in baby oil, pat dry, and gently wipe the inside of the ear. Wipe in an outward motion.
- You may use a cotton pad wrapped around your finger instead on a cotton bud.
- Wipe away the baby oil in your guinea pig’s ears. You may dip a cotton bud in warm water and pat dry before wiping.
Notes: Examine your guinea pig’s ears weekly. If you see excessive dirt, pus, dry skin, or if they have bad odor, do contact your vet immediately.