If your dog or cat has itchy, sore ears, this may be worth a look. I tested the Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus Enzymatic Ear Solution and found it easy to use. I liked that I did not need to clean the ear first. In short, this is a good pick for pet owners who need help with hard-to-clear ear problems.
Product Review: Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus
I found the Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus easy to add to my pet care routine. The bottle is small and easy to hold. The liquid goes right into the ear, so I did not need many tools.
One thing that stood out to me was the enzyme formula. It is made to help with bacteria, yeast, and hard-to-clear ear issues. The added 1% hydrocortisone is meant to help with itch and mild swelling.
I also liked the no-pre-clean step. Zymox says the ear should not be cleaned before use because this can affect the enzyme action. That made the process much less messy for me.
The normal use is once a day for seven days. I found that simple plan easy to remember. My main tip is to follow the label and your vet’s advice if the ear problem is strong or keeps coming back.
This formula is made for dogs and cats. It is also made in the USA. The bottle holds 1.25 ounces, which makes it easy to keep in a pet care kit.
Pros
- Easy once-a-day use
- No pre-cleaning needed
- Has 1% hydrocortisone for itch
- Uses an enzyme-based formula
- Made for dogs and cats
- Small bottle is easy to store
Cons
- The small bottle may not last long with large pets
- It may cost more than basic ear cleaners
- It is not right for every ear problem
- It should not be used with a damaged ear drum
- Pets that should avoid steroids need another option
What I Like
- Simple ear care: I did not have to start with a full ear-cleaning job. That saved time during each use.
- Less fuss: My pet could shake after I used the drops. I only had to wipe away extra liquid from the outer ear.
- Good fit for repeat ear issues: I liked that the formula is made with hard-to-clear ear problems in mind.
- Itch support: The 1% hydrocortisone gives this version an extra role when itch and mild swelling are part of the problem.
- Easy to keep at home: The bottle takes up little room. I could keep it with my other pet care items.
What Could Be Better
- Bottle size: At 1.25 ounces, I would like a larger size for homes with more than one pet.
- Not a cure for every cause: Ear trouble can have many causes. I would not use this as a way to skip a vet visit.
- Steroid limits: The 1% hydrocortisone is useful for some pets, but it is not the right choice for every pet.
My Personal Experience with Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus
I found the first use quite simple. I shook the bottle and applied the solution into the ear as directed.
The no-clean step was the part I liked most. I did not have to scrub out the ear before using the product.
I gently rubbed the base of the ear after adding the drops. This helped spread the liquid around the ear canal.
My pet then shook its head. That is normal with ear drops, so I kept a soft cloth nearby.
I noticed that the process did not take much time. For busy days, that was a real plus.
I also liked the once-a-day plan. It was easier for me than a product that needs many uses each day.
The 1% hydrocortisone gives this version a clear purpose. It can help when itch and mild swelling are part of the ear problem.
I would still watch the ear closely during use. Bad smell, pain, heavy discharge, or a problem that does not improve can mean that a vet should check the pet.
I would not use this product in a pet with a known or suspected ruptured ear drum. That is an important safety point for me.
I also would not mix it with other ear products unless my vet told me to. The maker says other ear topicals should not be used at the same time.
For a pet with repeat ear trouble, I see this as a useful home-care option. But I would use it as part of good pet care, not as a way to replace a vet when one is needed.
Comparing With Other Brands
I have also looked at other pet ear care products, from basic ear cleaners to enzyme-based ear solutions. Many are made mainly to clean dirt and wax. Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus takes a different path by focusing on ear problems along with itch relief.
Zymox vs Other Ear Solutions: Quick Comparison
For comfort, I like the Zymox Plus formula when itch is part of the issue because it has 1% hydrocortisone. A basic cleaner may not offer that same type of itch support.
For daily use, Zymox is easy to fit into a pet care plan. The once-a-day direction is simple to follow during a seven-day course.
For ear cleaning, I would not compare it to a normal cleaner in the same way. Zymox says not to pre-clean the ear, as the enzyme action can be affected by cleaning first.
For repeat problems, I find the advanced formula more suited to this need than a simple wax cleaner. Still, repeat ear trouble is a good reason to ask a vet about the cause.
For price, a basic cleaner may cost less. I would pay more for Zymox only when its added features match my pet’s needs.
Recommendation
I would recommend Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus to a dog or cat owner who wants a simple enzyme-based ear solution with itch support. I like it most for pets with recurring ear trouble where the product’s added features make sense.
I would do more research before using it on a pet with a known ear drum problem, severe pain, or a serious ear condition. I would also ask a vet before use if my pet has special health needs.
For USA pet owners, I also like that this product is made in the USA. The small bottle is easy to store, and the simple daily plan works well for a home pet care kit.
My final choice would depend on the cause of the ear problem. For mild cases where this type of product fits the need, I think Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus is a strong option.
FAQs for Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus
What is Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus used for?
Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus is made for dog and cat ear care. It uses an enzyme system and 1% hydrocortisone. It is designed for ear problems linked to bacteria, yeast, and other causes of ear irritation.
Does Zymox Otic Plus contain hydrocortisone?
Yes. This version contains 1% hydrocortisone. That makes it different from the hydrocortisone-free Zymox Plus formula.
Do I clean my pet’s ears before using Zymox?
No. Zymox says not to pre-clean the ear before using the Advanced Formula Otic Plus. The maker says cleaning first can affect the enzyme action.
How often should I use Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus?
The maker’s directions say to use it once a day for seven days, unless your vet gives you a different plan. Always follow the product label for your pet.
Can I use Zymox Otic Plus with other ear drops?
I would not mix it with other ear products on my own. The maker says not to use other ear topicals while using the Advanced Formula Zymox Plus Otic products.
Can Zymox be used if my pet has a ruptured ear drum?
No. The maker says not to use Advanced Formula Zymox Plus Otic on a ruptured ear drum. If you think your pet may have one, I would speak with a vet first.
Is Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus good for dogs and cats?
Yes, this version is made for dogs and cats. I would still check with a vet when the ear problem is severe, painful, or keeps coming back.
Conclusion
After looking closely at the Zymox Advanced Formula Otic Plus, I like its simple use and enzyme-based formula. The 1% hydrocortisone also makes it useful when itch and mild swelling are part of the issue. I would not use it for every ear problem, and I would get vet help when the signs are serious. For the right pet and the right need, this is one ear care product I would keep in mind.
Performance: Good for its intended ear care role
Ease of Use: Very easy
Value for Money: Good when the added features fit the need
Overall: A useful choice for dogs and cats with suitable ear care needs