Symptom triage · dogs and cats
Ear scratching and head shaking
Head shaking or scratching ears
Quick answer
PETHEALTH+ rates ear scratching and head shaking as not usually an emergency — book a routine vet appointment in the next day or two. See the linked UK guides for likely causes and what to do, or use the free symptom checker for instant triage. Information only, not a diagnosis.
Guides for ear scratching and head shaking
Dogs
Ear Infections in Dogs
Ear infections (otitis externa) cause **head shaking, scratching, redness, odour, and discharge** in the ear canal.
Cats
Cat Ear Mites: UK Signs, Treatment & Prevention
Ear mites cause **intense ear scratching, head shaking, and dark coffee-ground discharge** in the ears.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is ear scratching and head shaking an emergency in pets?
- Not usually an emergency, but it does need a vet. Book a routine appointment in the next day or two, sooner if your pet stops eating or deteriorates.
- Which pets does ear scratching and head shaking affect?
- This triage topic applies to dogs and cats. If your pet shows these signs, use the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker for instant triage or phone your vet.
- What should I do right now?
- PETHEALTH+ rates this as not usually an emergency — book a routine vet appointment in the next day or two. The guides linked on this page explain likely causes and what your vet may suggest. Information only, not a diagnosis.
Not sure how urgent it is?
Answer two questions and the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker will tell you whether to phone a vet now, today, or monitor at home.