How to Identify Skin Problems on Cats

Skin problems occur in cats for a variety of reasons. There are different types of feline skin problems including allergies, infections, tumors, wounds, parasites and even various forms of dry skin. There are ways to identify if your cat is experiencing skin problems; some you can do at home and some require veterinary treatment. Veterinary treatment is recommended for any type of skin problem you cat encounters, as your veterinarian knows your cat and how to best treat your cat's skin.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea comb
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe your cat, watching for signs of scratching, excessive licking or discomfort of the skin.

    • 2

      Check your cat for parasites such as fleas and mites, which can cause irritation and even allergies of the feline skin. Comb or run your fingers through your cat's fur and look closely at the skin for moving fleas or specks of dirt (this indicates fleas, as well). Check the skin of your cat's ears for excessive dirt build-up and a foul odor. This indicates mites.

    • 3

      Examine your cat's skin for flakes, lesions, bumps or irritation. Again, push and separate the fur to look closely at your cat's skin. Make a note of the irritation and where it is on your cat, so you can tell your veterinarian accurately.

    • 4

      Visit your veterinarian for an examination of your cat's skin problem. Have the veterinarian perform diagnostic tests to determine the problem and exact cause. Tests include physical examination; blood tests; biopsies; skin scrapes, a few layers of cells are scraped off of the cat's skin for microscopic examination; and even X-rays.