Feline Hair Loss & Skin Sores

Cats, just like humans, can suffer from a variety of skin ailments and hair loss. These conditions are generally caused by many of the same environmental factors that affect humans, such as allergies and stress. There are also several conditions that are not caused by the environment, but are inherited and cause these symptoms.

  1. Food Allergies

    • A cat's diet may cause allergic reactions such as scratching, excessive licking and chewing. The most common irritants include dairy products, beef, chicken, cereal grains and eggs. It is difficult to tell which item is causing the reaction.

    Environmental Allergies

    • Coming into contact with an irritant, such as a chemical, in the environment can cause skin to develop a rash and become irritated where fur is thinnest. With continual exposure, fur loss can occur.

    Atopy

    • Atopy refers to allergies caused by the inhaling of pollen, mold, dust, and other small particles in the air.

    Fleas, Lice, and Ringworm

    • The saliva in fleas and lice bites can cause severe reactions such as itching, skin scales, crustiness, and hair loss. Ringworm is an infection of several different molds, which can cause similar symptoms.

    Genetic Sources

    • Cats can also inherit diseases that can cause fur loss and skin irritation. These include alopecia and seborrhea.