Feline Skin Disease

Many skin conditions in cats are the result of allergic reactions and pests like fleas and ticks. Some cat skin conditions are the result of a disease, however. These cat skin diseases require the care of a skilled veterinarian to accurately treat them. Cats require healthy skin for them to have a healthy quality of life.

  1. Cheyletiellosis

    • In cats, Cheyletiellosis is caused by mites on the skin. It is contagious between cats as well as between cats and humans. The symptoms for Cheyletiellosis in cats include itching and scaling or flaking of the skin. Also known as walking dandruff, Cheyletiellosis is an annoyance, but is not actually deadly to the feline. Once a diagnosis has been made and then confirmed, the right medication prescribed by a veterinarian should clear it up.

    Alopecia

    • In cats, alopecia causes hair loss as a result of numerous potential factors including localized infections, disturbances in the endocrine system or a number of other generalized illnesses. In some cats, alopecia occurs as a result of stress. The symptoms for alopecia include skin that is reddened or inflamed and bald patches. Alopecia is not deadly, but it can prevent hair from growing back and may be a sign of underlying illness.

    Acne

    • It is common for cats to experience acne, and the treatment is just as common. Symptoms associated with acne in cats include inflamed skin and reddened skin and the appearance of irritated bumps. Although this is not a serious disease, it should be addressed by a veterinarian.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm is not actually a worm, but rather is a fungal infection of the skin. Ringworm is capable of being passed between different species as well as from feline to human. Symptoms of ringworm include hair loss, itching, flaking and drying of the skin. The symptoms typically take a circular pattern. There are over-the-counter medications to treat ringworm, many of which contain the same ingredients as those used to treat athlete's foot fungus in humans.

    Mange

    • Cats can experience sarcoptic mange, which is also known as scabies. This is a parasitic form of disease that is caused by a tiny, microscopic mite. Both cats and people can be affected by mange. A variety of skin problems are capable of being caused by these tiny mites including localized infection, hair loss, irritated skin and other issues. Addressing sarcoptic mange requires the assistance of a veterinarian.