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My ferret has a lot of earwax. Is this normal? How do I clean it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | 3 lbs

Wandering why my ferret gets earwax build up

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 5th, 2018

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.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on June 8th, 2019
This is likely to be due to an yeast infection caused by Malassezia spp.
I cannot rule out completely the presence of ear mites though, so a check up would be required to give appropriate treatment.
Regular cleaning (DO NOT USE COTTON BUDS as you can easily damage ear canal and tympanic membrane) with a generic ear cleaner can help but may not be enough to completely resolve the problem.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 24th, 2018
Hello!

An ear infection that was treated and resolved a year ago likely has nothing to do with his current ear problem.
I would recommend taking him to a vet to find out what is causing the problem. Sometimes ferrets can get ear mites, which are treated differently than normal bacterial ear infections. They will be able to check for this by taking a swab and putting it under the microscope and decide on what medications based on that information.

I hope this helps!
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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