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What causes my kitten's dirty, itchy ears and head shaking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 16 days old | 3 lbs

My kittens ears are all dirty inside, and she is constantly itching them and shaking her head.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 17th, 2019

Hi there. Itching and "dirty" appearing ears can be caused by either ear mites, or a yeast or bacterial ear infection. Treatment will depend on what the underlying problem is, so I would recommend taking Luna to the vet for an exam. He/she can take a sample of the debris in her ears and look at it under the microscope to diagnose the problem, and will prescribe appropriate medication to treat her depending on what is found.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 26th, 2018
It could be allergies. Even if the vet didn't see mites, I would recommend that both cats be treated with a topical parasiticide like Revolution that will treat ear mites and fleas (the other common itch). Other possible causes for itch include food allergies and environmental allergies. Some pets can be allergic to lots of things that don't cause itching, but when they start to build-up in the body they reach their itch threshold. You can talk to your vet about a dose of zyrtec or claritin to try. But some pets can be managed by staying on flea preventatives and a diet for allergies.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 23rd, 2017
The best thing to do is get ear wash or cleaner from a pet store if there is not vet available. if there are mites or an infection, the wash every other day can help rinse and dilute out whatever is there to help until the vet opens back up. She will shake after the wash due to substance in the ear. Just get a cotton ball and wipe out whatever excess you see to help with that
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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