I would be a little hesitant to use alcohol in the event that there might be a little infection going on in there and it would burn like crazy. I remember years ago my daughter had swimmer's ear (not the same thing as what we are talking about, but it did involve an infection inside the ear). I put a drop in her ear, with an alcohol base, and it almost sent her through the ceiling. I guess what I am trying to say, is to check with the vet first to see what really is going on down inside that ear and then treat it however he advises.