Alopecia Areata in a Cat

Alopecia, a general term for hair loss, can affect any breed of cat. A particular type, alopecia areata, causes a cycle of hair loss that creates large areas of baldness on the cat's body or around the neck, head and shoulders. According to Vet Info, most researchers believe the disorder is an autoimmune condition, but some think diet may be implicated in alopecia areata.

  1. Identification

    • While shedding is normal for most cats, excessive hair loss, especially when seen in unusual patterns, requires veterinary attention. Alopecia areata follows a distinct course in cats, starting with loss in small patches and progressing to larger patches as older sites start to fill in with new hair growth, according to Pet Health &Care. The condition does not cause itching or inflammation. Cats experiencing this type of hair loss should be taken in for a veterinary workup.

    Cause

    • Most veterinary professionals believe feline alopecia areata stems from an autoimmune response that attacks growing hair, according to Pet Education. Autoimmune conditions are considered idiopathic, meaning there is no known reason for the body to attack healthy cells.

    Diagnosis

    • After reviewing a full medical history of the cat, a veterinarian will examine the patches of hair loss and their pattern to determine which phase of hair loss and regrowth the cat is experiencing. The vet also will examine the skin to see if hairs are falling out intact or being broken off at the hair follicle, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. If the vet suspects another type of alopecia, he will take skin scrapings to biopsy for fungal or bacterial infections. If these biopsies are negative, they will help confirm alopecia areata as the diagnosis.

    Resolution

    • Alopecia areata often spontaneously resolves on its own, according to the Veterinary Information Network. This means the cat's hair will regrow in all of the formerly bald areas, usually within two to three weeks. Steroids that suppress the immune system, which are prescribed for many other autoimmune conditions, are not offered for alopecia areata because they are not considered effective.

    Diet

    • Vet Info reports that some researchers have found a link between feline alopecia areata and diet. If diet plays a role in a cat's hair loss, additional symptoms, such as skin irritation and redness, manifest as well. An elimination diet plan--where one food item is eliminated at a time--can help identify dietary hair-loss triggers, which may include wheat, corn or soy ingredients found in cat food and treats. When a diagnosis of alopecia areata is made, the vet should be consulted about dietary changes as a possible treatment approach.