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Head shaking is a very common worry I receive from pet owners with various size pets. In lots of cases, the cause of this historical problem is due to some sort of underlying ear inflammation and/or allergy. Allergies are a lot of frequently due to inhalant/contact allergens such as molds, grasses, trees, dander, house dust, pollen, as well as possible food allergies.
Many times underlying allergies may cause secondary bacterial and/or yeast infections of the ears, which often result in excessive wax or discharge and thus secondary head shaking. In younger or outdoor pets, ear mites may be an underlying cause of head shaking, and these need to be ruled out by veterinary exam and/or examination of discharge under the microscope.
To help treat the symptoms of head shaking in your pet dog or cat, I recommend antihistamines such as Benadryl (dose of one mg per pound twice daily) and using cleaning agents like Zymox Otic which may help until a definitive diagnosis can be made and long term treatment plan instituted with your pet’s veterinarian.
Allergies