As a pet owner, seeing your pet not acting their normal self can be concerning.
While shaking their head occasionally may not be of any concern, if it occurs repeatedly for an extended amount of time or is accompanied by additional changes- this could indicate underlying concerns.
Understanding the potential causes, diagnostic steps, and treatment options can help you determine when to seek veterinary care.
Possible Causes of Head Shaking in Pets
Head shaking in pets can result from a number of factors, ranging from a normal bodily response to a mild concern or even severe health issue. Some common causes include the following:
- 1. Behavioral Activity:
Occasional head shaking can be a normal instinct/response in your pet as they can commonly head shake to alleviate a sudden itch, attempt to remove something they feel within their ears or on their head, and even head shake when waking. Boredom, anxiety, and stress can all be causes of random head shaking as well.
- Ear Infection (Otitis):
Ear infections are most commonly due to bacterial and/or yeast overgrowth. Ear mite infestations can also be the cause. Foreign material trapped within the ear can lead to infections. Water from recent water exposure (bath, swimming, rain, drinking, etc) can lead to bacterial overgrowth within the ear. Allergies can also lead to ear infections.
- Allergies:
Allergies are a common cause of head shaking and tend to have additional symptoms accompanying such as constant itching/scratching, licking paws, sneezing, watery eyes, red skin, etc. Allergies can be caused from the environment, contact allergens, food allergies, ectoparasites, etc. Finding the diagnosis is important to properly treat allergies. It can sometimes be difficult and time consuming to find the inciting allergen as there are many causes to allergies.
- Neurologic concerns:
Neurologic concerns can be a cause of head shaking and are often accompanied by other neurologic signs such as head tilt, trouble walking, falling over, or even seizures. Brain tumors, Idiopathic Head Tremors, systemic diseases, etc. Videos of the event can be beneficial.
- Other possible reasons:
- Pain (associated with head, neck, mouth, etc)
- Systemic diseases
- Aural hematomas
- Cancer
- Others
Diagnosing the Cause of Head Shaking
If your pet experiences persistent head shaking, your veterinarian may recommend a series of diagnostic tests to determine what may be the underlying cause. These tests may include:
- Physical Examination: to evaluate overall health
- Otoscopic Examination: to evaluate the external ear canal and the eardrum (tympanic membrane) looking for any abnormality, foreign material, or possible cause of head shaking.
- Ear Cytology: to microscopically evaluate contents within ear to help rule in/out infection
- Blood Tests: to evaluate overall organ function, electrolytes, thyroid levels, immune cells and blood cells.
- CT Scan: to evaluate internal organs and structures for any possible abnormal finding or cause that could contribute to head shaking.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While a single episode/day of head shaking may not require additional workup, we still recommend contacting your veterinarian if your pet experiences:
- Frequent or persistent head shaking (lasting more than 24 hours)
- Head shaking accompanied by behavioral change, changes to the skin, odors, or any changes out of the normal noticed.
- Notable external parasites (fleas or ticks)
- Known contact with caustic or toxic substance
- Seeming painful or distressed
Treatment Options for Head Shaking
Treatment depends highly on the underlying cause and can vary greatly. Sometimes treatment is geared towards supportive care while treating the disease or treating the symptoms seen. Some treatment options may include:
- Supportive Care: Medicated Shampoos, Ear cleansers, Parasite prevention, etc
- Dietary Management: Depending on underlying cause, sometimes a diet change to a prescription or specific diet is needed. Especially for food allergies.
- Medications: Treating underlying diseases and infections if diagnosed.
- Surgery: Removing foreign material, tumors or correcting anatomical issues if diagnosed.
Preventing Head Shaking in Pets
While not all causes of head shaking are preventable, you can take steps to minimize the risk:
- Feed a balanced, high-quality diet and avoid sudden dietary changes.
- Consistent parasite prevention
- Keep up with routine veterinary check-ups, blood testing and vaccinations once to twice yearly.
- Routine grooming and baths
Conclusion and Next Steps
Head shaking in pets can range from something that is a normal behavior to something that may be a serious health condition that needs medical attention. Monitoring your pet’s symptoms and seeking veterinary advice when necessary can ensure their health and well-being. If you have concerns, always consult your veterinary team to determine the best course of action for your pet.
