Alopecia in Cats

Hair loss, or alopecia, is not an uncommon condition in cats. There are several conditions that can cause hair loss, and it can be a symptom of a simple fleabite or a more serious illness.

  1. Fleas

    • Fleas are the most common cause of hair loss in cats. Some cats have a severe allergy to the saliva of fleas, and a single bite can cause them intense discomfort.

    Mange

    • The mite that causes mange is the second most common skin parasite in cats. Mange causes hair loss around the face, eyes and neck of the cat.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm, which is caused by a fungus and not a worm, is common in cats. It causes hair loss with a scaly, crusty lesion.

    Alopecia Areata

    • Alopecia areata is thought to be an autoimmune condition. It causes patches of hair loss on the head, neck and body.

    Cushing's Disease

    • Cushing's Disease is caused by an increase of corticosteroids in the cat's body. The first symptom is often hair loss.

    Folliculitis

    • This is caused by an infection of the hair follicles. It usually causes hair loss on the face, neck and head.