As pet parents, we love to shower our furry friends with affection and attention. But have you ever noticed that your cat shakes their head when you pet her ears? It can be a bit concerning, and you may start to wonder if something is wrong with your feline companion. Fear not, dear reader. There’s a perfectly reasonable explanation for this behavior.
Cats have incredibly sensitive ears, which is why they have large, mobile appendages that can rotate up to 180 degrees. When you touch their ears, you might accidentally hit a sensitive spot like the ear canal or a ticklish area. This triggers an automatic response from your furball to shake their head as a way of trying to dislodge any irritants and restore their comfortable state.
However, if your cat is continuously shaking its head, it could be due to an underlying problem. For instance, they may have an ear infection or ear mites that cause discomfort or pain leading to such behavior.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons why cats shake their heads when you touch their ears. We’ll also explore the common ear problems that cause such behavior and how to prevent them. Plus, we’ll discuss when it’s time to seek help from your veterinarian. So sit tight and let’s get started on learning everything there is to know about why your cat shakes her head when you pet her ears.
What Causes Cats to Shake Their Heads When Petting Their Ears?
If you’ve ever petted a cat and noticed them shaking their head or twitching their ears, you may have wondered what’s going on. Rest assured, this behavior is quite common and doesn’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong with your feline friend. However, there are several reasons why cats shake their heads when their ears are being petted.
One of the main reasons that cats shake their heads when their ears are being petted is due to overstimulation. Cats have sensitive ears and may become easily agitated or overwhelmed when they are touched too much. When this happens, they may shake their head as a way of trying to escape the stimulus.
Another reason why cats shake their heads when their ears are being petted is because they may be experiencing discomfort or pain. Ear infections and other ear problems can cause cats to feel pain or discomfort when their ears are touched. If your cat is shaking her head excessively or showing signs of discomfort, it’s essential to book an appointment with your veterinarian.
It’s also possible that your cat is trying to communicate with you through head shaking. If she continues to shake her head after you’ve stopped petting her, she may be telling you that she’s had enough or doesn’t like the way you’re touching her. In this case, it’s important to pay attention to your cat’s body language and adjust your petting accordingly.
Ear Infections
If you have ever seen your cat shaking their head or scratching at their ears, it could be a sign of an ear infection.
Ear infections in cats are one of the most common reasons why they shake their heads due to the inflammation caused by bacteria or yeast growth in the ear canal. This inflammation can cause discomfort for your cat, and shaking their head is a way to alleviate that pain.
Several factors can make a cat more prone to ear infections, including allergies, especially to food or environmental allergens, and long hair around their ears, such as Persians or Maine Coons. These breeds tend to trap moisture and debris in their fur, which can lead to bacterial or yeast growth.
Another common cause of ear infections in cats is ear mites. These tiny parasites live in the ear canal and feed on wax and oils in the ear. As they feed, they cause irritation and inflammation, leading to an infection. Ear mites are highly contagious and can easily spread from cat to cat. Therefore, it’s vital to treat all cats in your household if one is diagnosed with ear mites.
If you suspect your cat has an ear infection, don’t hesitate to take them to the vet for a check-up. The vet can examine the ears and determine if there is an infection or any underlying issue causing the shaking. Treatment for ear infections typically involves cleaning the ears and administering medication, either topical or oral. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a polyp or tumor that is causing the infection.
Prevention is key when it comes to ear infections in cats. Regular vet check-ups can help catch any potential issues early on before they become full-blown infections. Additionally, keeping your cat’s ears clean and dry, particularly if they have long hair around their ears, can prevent bacterial or yeast growth. Lastly, keeping your cat indoors and away from other cats who may have ear mites can help prevent the spread of these pesky parasites.
Ear Mites
However, if you notice your cat shaking their head persistently when you pet their ears, it could be a sign of ear mites. These pesky parasites are a common cause of head shaking in cats and can cause discomfort and even hearing loss if left untreated.
Ear mites are highly contagious and can easily spread from one cat to another through close contact or sharing bedding and grooming tools. They are more commonly found in outdoor cats, stray cats, and those living in multi-cat households.
Symptoms of ear mites in cats include scratching at the ears, redness and swelling in the ear canal, and a dark discharge that resembles coffee grounds. These tiny parasites feed on the wax and oils in a cat’s ear canal, causing irritation and inflammation. As a result, cats may shake their heads vigorously to try to dislodge the mites.
If you suspect your cat has ear mites, it’s important to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to kill the mites and provide instructions on how to administer it. Ignoring the situation can lead to more serious infections and even hearing loss.
Prevention is also key in avoiding ear mites in cats. Regularly cleaning your cat’s ears and keeping them free of dirt and debris can help prevent an infestation. Additionally, keeping your cat indoors can greatly reduce their risk of exposure to other infected animals.
Sensitivity to Touch
Cats have an extraordinary number of nerve endings around their ears, making them highly sensitive to even the slightest touch. This sensitivity can cause discomfort and irritation, leading your cat to shake their head in response. So, if you notice your cat shaking their head after ear scratches, it could be due to this sensitivity.
However, it’s essential to note that some cats may have a medical condition that affects their ears’ sensitivity. For example, ear infections or ear mites can cause pain and discomfort in the ears, making them more sensitive to touch. In these cases, shaking the head is a natural response to reduce the discomfort.
As a responsible cat owner, it’s crucial to pay attention to your cat’s body language when petting them around the ears. If your cat shows signs of discomfort or agitation, it may be best to avoid touching their ears altogether. Alternatively, you can try gentler strokes and observe how your cat responds.
It’s important to note that persistent shaking of the head or other symptoms such as scratching or discharge from the ears may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires veterinary attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe infections and even hearing loss. Therefore, seeking proper diagnosis and treatment from a veterinarian is essential.
How to Tell If Your Cat Has an Ear Problem
One issue that can arise is ear problems, which can cause a lot of discomfort for your cat. But how can you tell if your cat is suffering from an ear problem? Here are some key signs to look out for:
Behavioral Changes
Cats with ear problems may exhibit changes in behavior. If you notice your cat constantly pawing at her ears or rubbing her head against objects, this could be a sign that something is wrong. Additionally, if your cat seems more irritable or lethargic than usual, it’s important to consider the possibility of an ear problem.
Examining the Ears
Carefully examining your cat’s ears is another way to determine if she has an ear problem. Look for any redness, swelling, discharge, or foul odor – these could all indicate an infection or other underlying issue. You may also notice that the ear canal appears blocked or narrowed, affecting your cat’s hearing.
Shaking Head
If you notice your cat shaking her head frequently or vigorously when you pet her ears, it could also be a sign of an ear problem.
Loss of Balance and Coordination
Another sign of an ear problem in cats is a loss of balance or coordination. This can occur when an infection or inflammation spreads to the inner ear, affecting your cat’s ability to maintain their balance. If you notice that your cat seems unsteady on their feet or is having trouble walking, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Seeking Veterinary Care
If you suspect that your cat has an ear problem, it’s crucial to take her to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Your vet can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate medication or other therapies to address the issue. By seeking prompt veterinary care when necessary, you can help ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Treatment for Ear Problems in Cats
Unfortunately, ear problems can arise, which can cause discomfort and irritation. The good news is that there are various treatment options available, both at home and in veterinary care.
Before considering treatment options, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the ear problem. Common causes include ear mites, bacterial or yeast infections, allergies, and polyps. Once you have identified the cause, you can choose the appropriate treatment.
One effective home remedy for ear problems in cats is the use of a warm compress. Simply soak a clean washcloth in warm water and apply it gently to your cat’s ear. This helps soothe any inflammation or irritation in the ear.
Another natural remedy is a gentle ear cleaner made from equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Apply it to your cat’s ears using a cotton ball or soft cloth for effective cleaning. While this remedy is safe for most cats, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian first before attempting any home remedies.
In addition to these home remedies, regular cleaning of your cat’s ears is crucial in preventing ear problems. Use only products specifically designed for cats as human products can be harmful to their delicate ears.
If your cat’s ear problem persists despite home remedies and regular cleaning, it’s time to seek veterinary attention. Your veterinarian will diagnose the underlying cause of the problem and prescribe appropriate treatment which may include prescription medication or specialized cleaning procedures.
Also Read: Why Does Your Cat Keep Shaking Head But Has No Mites?
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’ve ever noticed your feline friend shaking their head when you pet their ears, there’s no need to panic. It’s simply a natural response to the sensitivity of their ears. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for continuous head shaking or other symptoms such as scratching or discharge from the ears, which could indicate an underlying medical condition.
Ear problems are a common issue among cats and can cause discomfort and pain for your beloved pet. Ear infections and ear mites are some of the most commonly encountered problems. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more severe infections and even hearing loss.
To prevent ear problems in cats, regular cleaning of your cat’s ears is essential. Keeping them dry can also help prevent bacterial or yeast growth. Additionally, keeping your cat indoors can greatly reduce their risk of exposure to other infected animals.
If you suspect that your cat has an ear problem, seek veterinary care immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate medication or other therapies to address the issue.
Remember, paying attention to your cat’s body language when petting them around the ears is crucial in preventing discomfort or agitation. Adjusting your petting accordingly may help avoid any unnecessary shaking of the head due to overstimulation.
