Imagine every time you look over at your cat, it’s aggressively shaking its head. This behavior is certainly unusual, but does it warrant a call to the vet? Learn about common health issues that may lead to a cat shaking its head all the time, and what you can do to address the problem.
Top Reasons Why Cats Shake Their Heads
If you ask a veterinarian about the primary causes of head shaking in cats, they may point to several conditions, including:
- Ear infections: A buildup of yeast or bacteria inside a feline’s ear canal can make the area itchy and full of discharge. Cats may shake their heads more than usual in an attempt to expel the discharge and make themselves comfortable.
- Ear mites: The presence of tiny mites is one of the most common cat ear problems, causing head shaking and other symptoms.
- Tumors: Masses like tumors and benign polyps could grow inside the ear canal, impacting a cat’s comfort.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to food or environmental irritants may lead to a cat shaking its head excessively.
- Neurological disorders: Your cat may have a neurological condition that creates balance issues, resulting in frequent head tilting or shaking.
Cat head shaking symptoms can also be due to foreign objects inside the ear canal, injuries to the area, or even mange in cats. Seek veterinary care to help your feline friend overcome the symptoms and discomfort of these issues.
The Importance of Taking Your Cat to a Veterinarian in New York
Pet owners should have a reliable veterinary team they can turn to. Veterinarians ensure that cats remain healthy during annual wellness exams and can also address acute changes in their health, such as excessive head scratching. By properly diagnosing and treating your cat, your veterinary care provider will help them live a longer, healthier life.
Find a trustworthy veterinarian in New York as soon as you bring a new feline into your home. They can provide your cat with the necessary vaccines and treat any underlying health issues impacting them. Don’t hesitate to seek emergency care if your cat experiences a traumatic injury or appears to be seriously ill.
How To Treat Excessive Head Shaking in Cats
Excessive head shaking is almost always a symptom of a bigger issue. To keep your cat from shaking, you’ll need to target the underlying cause. Treatment plans vary as a result.
Say your vet connects the head scratching to itchiness and inflammation caused by an allergy. As long as your cat remains exposed to the allergen, the symptoms may continue. Treatment will likely involve limiting their exposure, such as putting them on a hypoallergenic diet or being mindful of environmental irritants like pollen or dust.
What if your cat has a bacterial infection inside their ear? Vets may prescribe ear drops or a cleaning solution to help flush out the bacteria.
Perhaps a neurological condition is to blame. The animal may need medication to help manage the symptoms. In some cases, vets may have to perform surgery to correct neurological issues.
Tips for Maintaining Your Cat’s Ear Health
More often than not, a cat shaking its head is due to ear-related irritation. If your pet starts shaking their head constantly, it’s in your best interest to take the kitty to the vet for a complete check-up and treatment plan.
What if they’re fine, but you want to avoid feline ear problems in the future? Try these tips:
- Routinely check their ears: Look for signs of irritation like redness or ear mites, which resemble small coffee grounds.
- Use a gentle, vet-approved cleaner: If you decide to clean your cat’s ears, carefully apply a solution that safely clears wax or discharge.
- Avoid allergens: Try limiting your cat’s exposure to common allergens like pollen, dust mites, and grass. Air purifiers can help maintain a clean, safe environment for you and your pets.
- Watch for changes in their health: Don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care if your cat starts experiencing symptoms like excessive scratching, weight loss, or behavioral changes.
Let Hudson Animal Hospital Keep Your Cat Healthy
Is your cat shaking its head nonstop? Whether they also experience ear mite symptoms or seem to be having an allergic reaction, bring them to Hudson Animal Hospital. Our experts frequently help pet parents in this situation and can accurately diagnose and treat your cat.
We strive to keep all of our four-legged patients as healthy as possible. Set up an appointment for your pet by calling (212) 706-4088 today.