I have used various types of cotton balls (round, square, puffs) to sterilize the area before administering an allergy shot or saline solution. Cotton works much better than manmade materials which leave little filaments behind.

Pros: Cotton is better than manmade materials

Cons: None

There are many ordinary products (not specially marketed for pets) that are useful to keep available. Cotton balls are soft and can be used safely for cleaning around the eyes and ears of your pet .

Pros: Better than a specialty wipe

Cons: none

get a good quality cotton ball the cheap one's fall apart and leave pieces in the animals ears.

I like those makeup pads for cleaning ears out better though than the cotton balls.

Pros: great for dirty ears

Cons: cheap one's fall apart and leave stuff in the ears

For some reason, cats always seem to tolerate ointments being applied or their eyes being cleaned with a cotton ball. Maybe the softness is less objectionable. They also seem to make fun toys, although I find the cottonballs have to be taken away before the eating phase starts.

Pros: Not as messy to apply ointment

Cons: n/a

I use cotton balls for cleaning out my cats ears. I have one cat that has "greasy ears" according to the vet. I clean his ears frequently and always use cotton balls. I also use them to clean my dogs ears. They are also good for cleaning eyes. I always make sure I have some.

Pros: Soft and pliable

Cons: none