Cat Fur Issues & Symptoms

A variety of elements can irritate a cat's skin, leading to the development of fur issues and symptoms that can affect your cat's health. Cat owners can help head off more serious issues and prevent their cat's possible fur loss by paying attention to their pet's sensitivities to food and environmental elements, the presence of parasites, and even a cat's anxiety.

  1. Parasites

    • Cats suffering from parasites like mites or fleas will generally exhibit symptoms starting out as itching. If the parasites are not treated early, the itching could eventually develop into hair loss. Treatment for parasites begins with over-the-counter flea collars and shampoos. For more serious infestations, especially if you suspect internal parasites, consult a veterinarian for proper treatment.

    Fungus (Ringworm)

    • Ringworm, which is not a worm at all but rather a form of fungus, can spread by "feeding" on the keratin in your cat's hair, nails and skin. Ringworm also spreads more rapidly in warm, humid environments. This fungus can self-cure, but should ideally be treated immediately because ringworm is highly contagious to humans and other household pets. Ringworm symptoms include skin lesions either devoid of hair or scaly, most commonly on the head (around the ears specifically) and near the cat's tail. These lesions can spread to other parts of the cat's face including its nose, lips and chin. Large patches of hair loss can eventually develop if the fungus is allowed to spread. Treat ringworm first with topical anti-fungal creams. In more severe cases, your vet may recommend a sulfur dip, shampoos or rinses. You should also thoroughly wash a cat's bedding as the fungus spores can live for up to two years if left untreated, according to the website Pet Education.

    Allergies

    • Like any mammal, cats can develop allergies to elements of their environment. Allergic reactions to carpet fresheners, plant food, dust, cleaners and even their food can result in an itchy or oozing rash, skin color changes and hair loss. If you suspect your cat's skin issues could be allergy-related, you can soothe the symptoms by gently cleaning the area with a warm, wet cloth followed by administering a light layer of topical cream. Also use good, old-fashioned detective work to determine what new elements in your cat's world might have caused the skin symptoms. Rule out or zero-in on the culprits by removing each element one at a time for a few days to see if your cat's symptoms improve.

    Endocrine Alopecia (Hormone Issues)

    • Occasionally, a cat can suffer from a hormone imbalance with its endocrine system, resulting in a condition called endocrine alopecia. A sudden change in certain hormones can cause anything from minor shedding to large bald patches on your cat's skin. A vet can treat hormonal hair loss through hormone therapy.

    Psychogenic Alopecia (Anxiety/Depression)

    • Occasionally a cat can develop skin irritations simply from anxiety due to changes in its environment or routine. Cats are easily stressed by changes such as a move to a new house, an addition to their family (either two legged or four legged), or even guests in the home. Cats calm themselves by grooming either through licking or chewing. For cats with long-term anxiety, the grooming can become excessive and lead to hair loss. Your veterinarian may opt to treat an overly anxious or nervous cat with anti-anxiety medication or an anti-depressant.