What Causes Alopecia Areata in Felines?

Feline hair loss, or alopecia, is caused by a variety of conditions. If a cat starts losing hair around its head and neck, or the trunk of its body, it may have alopecia areata. This condition does not generally affect the legs or tail and does not cause itching. Although the exact cause is unknown, veterinarians suspect that certain conditions may cause alopecia areata. Any cat exhibiting hair loss should be examined by a veterinarian for a definite diagnosis.

  1. Autoimmune Disorder

    • Immune disorders are considered the most likely cause of alopecia areata in cats. Diagnosis consists of a skin biopsy and a microscopic exam of the hairs. According to Pet Health and Care, the hair loss first appears in small round patches when the cat's immune system attacks hair-growth tissue. The three-stage cycle consists of these small patches of hair loss, larger amounts of hair loss, and new growth. The reason for this immune disorder remains unknown.

    Diet

    • Diet may be another cause of alopecia areata. According to Vet Info, suspected ingredients in cat food predisposing felines to alopecia areata may include soy, beef, corn or wheat. Other signs of dietary causes include the cat's refusal to eat and behaviors such as excessive licking or chewing its skin. Poor or unsatisfactory diets may also contribute to weakening of the immune system, causing the autoimmune reaction.

    Treatment

    • Although unsightly, alopecia areata usually clears up on its own, although it may take weeks or months. Dietary changes may hasten the cat's immune response and improve the condition more rapidly. After a thorough physical examination, a veterinarian will provide information on proper diet based on the cat's needs and may recommend, in addition to dietary changes, fatty acid supplements such as Omega 3s to support skin and hair health.

      Alopecia areata should not be confused with psychogenic alopecia, in which hair loss is caused by excessive grooming and biting. This is an obsessive-compulsive disorder requiring medication to break the cycle.