Cat Head Shaking: What It Could Mean

If you’ve noticed your cat shaking their head and you’re concerned that it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, you’re not alone. There are many reasons why a cat might shake their head, from something as simple as an itch or a foreign object in the ear to more serious issues like ear infections, ear mites, allergies, or even neurological problems.

In this article, we’ll look at the potential causes of this behavior based on the latest veterinary science and expert knowledge. This will help you better understand the factors at play so you can more accurately assess your cat’s head shaking and know when it’s time to see the vet. This way, you can either rest assured or get your cat the care they need.

Ear Infections and Mites: The Most Likely Causes of Head Shaking

Ear infections and ear mites are at the top of the list of the most likely causes of frequent head shaking in cats. Newport Harbor Animal Hospital notes that bacterial and yeast infections in the outer ear canal can cause ear infections that result in pain, swelling, and bad smells that cause cats to shake their heads constantly in an effort to relieve their discomfort.

Ear mites are highly contagious parasites that can only be seen with a microscope and cause intense itching and irritation in the ears. As The Spruce Pets points out, ear mites often lead to secondary infections because they create the perfect environment for bacterial or yeast infections. Kittens and cats that spend time outdoors are especially prone to ear mites, and a veterinarian will need to treat the infestation.

In addition to head shaking, other symptoms like redness, discharge, head tilting, and excessive scratching at the ears can be signs of an ear infection or mite infestation, according to Vetster. If your cat is experiencing these symptoms in addition to head shaking, it’s important to see a vet to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. If left untreated, ear problems can result in a ruptured eardrum, hearing loss, or other issues in the future.

Allergies, Polyps, and Other Potential Causes

Allergies, either environmental or food-related, can also lead to head shaking in cats as a result of ear inflammation and irritation. As Rover.com points out, symptoms of allergies like itching, sneezing, and skin issues can lead to head shaking in cats.

Ear polyps or growths in the ear canal can also cause head shaking because they can lead to pain and discomfort. As The Spruce Pets describes, polyps can lead to symptoms like scratching, ear discharge, balance problems, and even respiratory issues.

In addition, insect bites, foreign objects in the ear, and respiratory infections may also cause head shaking. According to Vetster, insect bites can lead to swelling, inflammation, and lesions that can cause head shaking.

In some cases, neurological disorders or injuries that affect the head and neck area may cause head shaking or tremors, not head shaking that's a response to an issue. It's important to make sure that these causes are ruled out through a comprehensive veterinary exam and diagnostic tests, as Rover.com points out.

When to See a Vet for Head Shaking

While some head shaking is normal, especially in cats, if your pet is shaking their head uncontrollably or excessively, it may be a sign of a more serious health issue. HVSE Veterinary Hospital notes that head shaking is a cause for concern because ear problems can lead to permanent damage, including ruptured eardrums and hearing loss.

In addition to head shaking, other symptoms that should be evaluated by a vet include ear discharge, a bad smell coming from the ear, redness, excessive scratching, balance issues, and head tilting, according to BetterPet. If your cat is experiencing sudden head tremors or any other seizure-like symptoms, this is a medical emergency, according to Catster.

Getting your cat the care they need as soon as possible can help prevent further complications and ensure that they are comfortable. By keeping an eye out for these symptoms and getting help from your vet when you need it, you can make sure that you address the issue that's causing your cat to shake their head before it gets worse.

At-Home Care and Preventative Measures

Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning can help prevent wax buildup and ear infections in some cats, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. That said, it's important to only use ear cleaning solutions that have been approved by your vet and to never put anything deep into the ear canal, which could cause damage.

Creating a safe, stimulating indoor environment can also help limit your cat's exposure to potential irritants or parasites that could cause head shaking, according to WikiHow. Good grooming and hygiene can also help prevent ear issues.

If at-home care doesn't help the head shaking or if the head shaking gets worse, it's important to see your vet right away. As PetMD notes, don't try to clean your cat's ears at home if they're showing any signs of infection, as this could make things worse. Your vet can help you ensure that your cat is comfortable and healthy.

How to Help Cats with Head Shaking

In addition to a stress-free environment, it is important to provide enrichment for cats with head shaking or tremors, according to PetMD. This can include low-impact play and other activities that keep the cat's mind stimulated.

The research from Zumalka also suggests that a diet that includes vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents can help support a cat's health. For example, the study showed that nutrients like Vitamin E in avocados, glucoraphanin in broccoli, and Omega-3s in fatty fish can protect and repair nerves.

While natural remedies such as CBD or supplements may help, it is important to talk to a vet before giving a cat any new treatments, according to Petcube. If your cat is experiencing head shaking or tremors on an ongoing basis or the symptoms are severe, it is important to work with a vet to get the right diagnosis and treatment to help manage the condition and keep your cat safe.

Conclusion: Dealing With Head Shaking to Help Your Cat

PDSA says that while cats will naturally shake their heads from time to time, if it starts to happen more frequently, it could be a sign of an ear infection, aural hematoma, ear mites, a foreign body, ear injury, allergic skin disease, or a growth in the ear. Make sure to look for other signs of these conditions, including itchy, smelly, or red/swollen ears, as well as any loss of balance.

The Spruce Pets explains that cats will shake their heads if their ears are itchy or painful, which can be caused by ear infections, ear mites, allergies, polyps, insect bites, foreign materials, or ear hematomas. Meanwhile, head tremors, which are a form of subtle seizures, are different from head shaking and may be a sign of a neurological issue.

Vetster says that while head shaking is normal in cats, excessive or accompanied head shaking could be a sign of an ear infection, allergy, mange, or neurological disorder. The tests and treatments for head shaking will depend on the cause.

However, it's important to see a vet and follow their advice to ensure that head shaking is accurately diagnosed and treated, especially if it's happening frequently or severely. By learning about the potential causes and taking the right steps, cat owners can help their pets stay comfortable and healthy.