Ear Cleaning Instructions Using Malaseb

The vet may prescribe the use of Malaseb shampoo for cleaning your dog's ears. Malaseb is a shampoo which is designed for use in specific skin conditions. When diluted, it makes a effective and gentle ear cleanser. Most commercial ear cleaners contain acid and can cause stinging and discomfort on application. Diluted malaseb is well tolerated and works well in breaking down wax and debris.

For use in the ears, Malaseb must be diluted 1 in 30 with water. You can make this up each time (5mls of malaseb to 150ml warm water) or you can make up large batches. An easy way is to add one quarter cup of malaseb (approx 60mls) to 2 litres of water, and then store in a cordial or soft drink bottle. This mixture MUST be shaken before use. You can then syringe directly what you need from the storage bottle or pour it into a bowl.

Using the supplied 5ml syringes, draw up 5mls of the 1 in 30 dilution and gentle syringe down the ear (pull up the floppy part of the ear and point the syringe downwards into the ear canal until you cannot see the tip of the syringe). Massage the ear for 30 seconds or so then wipe away any muck with some cotton wool or cloth. Repeat this 2-3 times for each ear.

Initially, perform this cleaning routine once daily for a week, then reduce it to every second to 3rd day for 2 weeks. You then may be able to reduce cleaning to once or twice a week as a maintenance routine.