My ferret has ear wax in one ear. Is it an infection or excess wax?

Thanks for reaching out about Naila and including a photo. The exudate from the ear is indicative of possible ear mites, infection or other problems. You are correct in that you need to see a veterinarian. You should indicate you are worried and if they can not help you, seek another veterinarian. Don't think this can wait until next week. Good luck.

Many ferrets are prone to copious amounts of ear wax. If left untreated it can lead to an ear infection. It is best to do regular ear cleaning at home. I suggest once a week. You can use this ear cleaner or one like it. Please don't use oil or peroxide or vinegar or any of the other weird things people report they use in the ears. Use an actual ear cleaner. ( https://www.ferret.com/item/marshall-ferret-ear-cleaner/650704/ ) Here is a link to an article about how to clean the ears: ( https://www.petfinder.com/pet-care/small-and-furry-care/tips-cleaning-ferret-ears/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It’s hard to say what can be causing Hook’s ear issue without seeing a photo, but discharge can be caused by ear mites or infections. I recommend cleaning the ear with an ear cleaning solution which is commonly available in pet stores and a piece of gauze or cotton pad. I recommend not using a q-tip to avoid trauma. If the ear itself is red or you think it is really bothering Hook, he should be seen by a vet sooner.

It could be ear mites, and unfortunately I can't diagnose Peaty online because I can't see him in person or examine the wax coming out of his ears. Revolution treats ear mites, but I do highly recommend a vet visit for this problem. This is because ear infections in dogs can also be caused by yeast or bacteria, and in order to treat him properly, the cause needs to be diagnosed. I certainly don't want you to spend money on a treatment that ends up being ineffective because it isn't the correct medication for the ear infection (Revolution does not treat yeast or bacterial ear infections). I would make an appointment for him to be seen by a vet for this problem so it can be treated correctly the first time. Best of luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Santiago and including a photo. Dermal infections or a histiocytoma are common dermal conditions in ferrets. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Monitor for self trauma and scratching, as if opens up, more likely to become infected. Good luck.

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Boo! The most common reason for extra moisture and wax build up in the ear is an ear infection. Ear infections are caused by bacteria and/or yeast build up which can be from allergies or just extra moisture. Ideally Boo should see your Vet to have the cause identified and appropriate drops prescribed to get rid of the infection. Ear infections are treated topically in dogs and cats. You can try this ear cleaner. I would clean out the ear every other day for 2 weeks. If there is no improvement or he worsens he should see your Vet. I also attached a video on how to clean the ears. I hope this helps and I wish Boo the very best! https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=24165 https://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?dept_id=&aid=165

Cute kitty! It may take 3-4 weeks for the revolution to completely rid the infection. You can purchase Eradimite or Otomite without a prescription and this may help rid the infection more quickly. Not sure if the Zymox you’re using is the treatment drops (which are great) or the cleanser (also a great product) but if it’s not the cleanser you are using already, then get some type of ear cleanser to help break up the “gunk” and get them out of there. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!