Excessive Hair Loss for Cats

There are several conditions which can cause excessive hair loss in cats. Some conditions may be geographical or genetic. Occasionally, excessive hair loss in cats can signal a more serious medical condition.

  1. Identification

    • Most cats will shed their hair from time to time. When this hair loss becomes excessive, then you may wish to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause. Obtaining a correct diagnosis is essential to treating this condition and prevent further hair loss.

    Contact Dermatitis/Allergic Reaction

    • An allergic reaction may cause bumps on the skin, itching and chronic hair loss in cats. The most common allergens are antibiotics, metals, rubber, wood, plastic, chemicals, dyes and poison ivy.

    Alopecia

    • Alopecia is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. Alopecia can cause cats to lose patches of hair on the head, neck and body and does not cause itching. Your veterinarian may suggest a treatment, but many cats recover on their own.

    Food Allergies

    • Food allergies can cause hair loss in cats. This is caused by a change in diet, or an allergy to some food in the cat's diet. Food allergies can cause itching, redness, hair loss, licking of feet, hot spots and inflammation of the ears. Your vet will most likely have you eliminate certain foods until symptoms have subsided.

    Lice

    • The infestation of lice can cause cats to lose their hair, itch and develop a rough hair coat. Lice or nits will be visible on the hair or skin. Ivermectin is used by most veterinarians to treat and eliminate lice.