Neutered Cats & Hair Loss

Hair loss can be frustrating and baffling for cat owners, especially if the cause of hair loss is unknown. In cats--as in humans--hair loss is a condition known as alopecia. Cat owners should be aware that there are several reasons for their cat to suffer from hair loss---not all of which, are a sign of serious disease or even due to neutering.

  1. Neutering

    • Neutering is a common practice performed on male cats. During a neuter surgery, the animal is castrated---meaning the testicles are removed.

    Identification

    • Feline hair loss can be localized, such as on the stomach, or can occur all over the body. Fur may be patchy, thinning throughout, or there may be areas that are completely bald.

    Causes

    • Hair loss can occur for many reasons, including serious diseases such as Cushing's disease or chemotherapy treatment; but it can also be due to more easily treated issues such as fleas or allergies. Additional causes include sunburn, fungal infections (ringworm), seborrhea and congenital hypotrichosis.

    Diagnosis

    • Sometimes a veterinarian will be able to immediately diagnose the cause of hair loss, such as a flea allergy. Other cats may require additional testing, such as blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of hair loss.

    Treatment

    • Treatment will vary from cat to cat depending on the underlying cause of hair loss. However, most cases of hair loss will clear up with treatment.