Small Bumps & Hair Loss in Cats

The two most common ailments a cat can have where it loses its hair and develops small bumps, or papules, are flea allergy dermatitis, or flea bite hypersensitivity, and allergic and irritant contact dermatitis. Other symptoms include redness and itching.

  1. The Saliva of Fleas

    • Flea allergy dermatitis, or flea bite hypersensitivity, is caused by the saliva of fleas. Studies have shown there are more than 15 antigens in the saliva of a flea, as of 2009.

    Like a Common Cold for Cats

    • Flea bite allergies and flea bite dermatitis are common problems in cats. They are akin to the common cold in humans.

    Seasonality of Flea Bite Allergies

    • Flea bite allergies are rampant in peak flea times in the summer and fall. Cats can get flea bite allergies even in temperate zones.

    Allergic and Irritant Contact Dermatitis

    • Cats with allergic contact dermatitis have hypersensitive reactions to certain molecules in its environment. Irritant contact dermatitis happens when the skin is exposed to noxious substances.

    Causes

    • Allergic contact dermatitis can be caused by antibiotics that are rubbed on the skin, such as certain metals, rubber, wool, dyes and carpet deodorizers. When the cat's skin is exposed to chemicals like poison ivy sap and road salt, the cat can contract dermatitis.