There are a handful of feline lesions and skin problems that are very common in cats. Most of them are treatable and will allow a cat to fully recover. Knowing the features of feline skin problems and when to take the cat to the vet will ensure the best outcome.
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Misconceptions
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There is a misconception among many cat owners that their feline friend really does have nine lives and a little skin problem isn't worth worrying about. There are many types of lesions or skin problems that can affect your cat. Knowing that any skin problem should be taken seriously will encourage every cat owner to take changes or lesions on the skin seriously and to get help sooner rather than later.
Types
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Diagnosing feline skin problems can be difficult because many issues look very similar. In a lot of cases, a veterinarian will need to do some testing, with either blood work or skin samples, to determine what exactly the cat is suffering from. A vet may also choose to look at the skin under a woods light, which is a special light used to check for fungal infections in cats. Skin problems and lesions in cats can usually be broken into several categories. These categories are usually cysts, skin cancer, mast cell tumors, squamous cell cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, a simple rash or dry skin. These skin conditions are usually the result of an aggravating factor such as diabetes, allergies, fleas, mites, a skin infection, fungus or ringworm.
Features
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The features associated with lesions and skin problems in cats are different from cat to cat and from problem to problem. What may present as something insignificant in one cat may present as quite serious in others. Many feline owners will first notice a change in pigment or they will notice a small lump. Depending on the skin problem or lesion, hair loss or even weeping of a wound may be noticed. Redness or dryness of the skin may be noted, but in some instances there are no features that really stand out. A vet can often make an educated guess about what the cat is ailing from depending upon where the skin is affected. For instance, cats who suffer around the ears or face may be suffering from mange while issues around the base of the tails are generally associated with fleas. Some breeds are more prone to certain skin problems than others, knowing these things help a vet to confirm a diagnosis and begin treatment.
Size
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It's important to note that skin problems and lesions come in all sizes in cats. Some serious issues can present in very small skin areas while some rather common diseases that pose no threat can affect the whole body. Size is generally not a good indicator of seriousness.
Risks
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There is always a risk associated with not seeking treatment when you notice changes of any type in the skin of your cat. The skin is the cat's largest organ and often the best indicator of overall health. By not seeking professional help when you notice changes you are not doing your cat any favors. Treatment can pose risks depending on the skin problem that is being treated and how well the cat is doing overall. Medicated shampoos are often used to treat issues and these have little to no risk, although they can be uncomfortable upon application. Antibiotics carry a small amount of risk, but surgery is often the best treatment option and even the most routine surgery can prove deadly.
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