What Causes Hair Loss in Cats?

Fleas, food allergies, ringworm and other problems can be the cause or can contribute to hair loss in cats. While there are many possible causes, there are a few that are more common than others.

Ringworm

Ringworm is actually a fungal infection that can cause hair loss, scaly skin and crusty areas. The affected areas may be itchy. Ringworm can be contracted from another animal or the environment. Cats with a compromised immune system will fall prey before healthy animals will. Medication from the vet will usually clear it up fairly quickly.

Psychogenic Dermatitis

This disorder happens when your cat is stressed, anxious or bored. Some cats are more highly strung than others and may be more prone to getting stressed out. You may notice the cat over grooming itself. This may cause symmetrical hair loss, and hot spots on the groin, along the back or on the abdomen. To treat this issue, the underlying stressor must be identified and removed from the cat’s environment. If this can’t be done, you must work to make your cat less anxious.

Hyperthyroidism

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include seborrhea, weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, increased thirst, diarrhea, weakness, excessive grooming, hotspots and hair that is easily pulled out. An exam and a blood test can check hormone levels and either confirm or rule out hyperthyroidism. It may be caused by environmental factors, food, and immunological factors. This problem is most frequently seen in middle aged to elderly cats. Treatments may include medication, surgery, chemical ablation or radioactive iodine treatment.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis

If you notice your cat itching a lot and see redness, scales, crusty skin and papules where the hair is being lost, it may be due to fleas. Some cats have allergic reactions to the flea saliva that can get in the bloodstream when bitten. In bad cases, the cat may also develop hot spots or infection in these areas. Look for the presence of fleas if you suspect this is the cause of your cat’s loss of fur. Look in the fur on your cat’s belly for crawling fleas or flea dirt (it looks like black specks in the fur). Treat your animal for fleas and treat the environment as well. You may need to treat the entire house, the cat’s sleeping areas and anywhere else they frequent. Your vet can prescribe antihistamines or steroids to relieve the itching.

Allergic and irritant contact dermatitis

Just like people, cats can get contact dermatitis. Itching, hair loss and skin irritation may occur due to exposure to antibiotics on the skin; certain metals like nickel; materials like plastic, rubber, or wool; or chemicals that are used on carpeting or as dyes. It can also be caused by poison ivy or other plants or even natural substances. Multiple exposures are usually necessary to cause a reaction. Your vet may need to do a patch test to figure out which substance your cat is reacting to. Steroids or antihistamines may help your cat get relief from the itching.

Conclusion

If you are concerned that your cat might be suffering from one of these above mentioned conditions, it is recommended that you speak with you vet as soon as possible.

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