Cat's Sudden Hair Loss: Ringworm, Eczema, or What?

Smooth and lustrous fur is not only a testament to a cat's charm but also a sign of their overall health. Should you, as a pet parent, notice a sudden patch of missing fur on your feline friend, it's time to sound the alarm. This could be a sign of an injury, skin condition, or parasitic infection, among other possibilities.

Understanding the Reasons Behind a Sudden Patch of Missing Fur on Cats

1. Parasitic Infections

Longterm lack of deworming can leave cats susceptible to external parasites like fleas, lice, and mites. Even indoor cats can be bitten by mosquitoes or other tiny insects, leading to itchy skin. Excessive scratching can result in local hair loss.

2. Skin Diseases

Conditions such as ringworm, eczema, and folliculitis can cause localized hair loss in cats, often accompanied by skin issues like dandruff, bumps, redness, pustules, blackheads, and scabs.

3. Trauma or SelfHarm

Cats might sustain skin injuries during play or fights with other pets. Additionally, some cats, affected by boredom, anxiety, or depression, may excessively lick or chew their fur, leading to patchy hair loss.

4. Allergies

Cats can be allergic to certain foods, medications, or environmental allergens like dust and pollen, leading to itchy, red, and bumpy skin. Intense itching can cause them to lick the area, resulting in hair loss.

5. Endocrine Disorders

Abnormalities in thyroid function or other endocrine diseases can lead to hair loss in cats, typically affecting both sides of the body. This may be accompanied by symptoms like weight changes, increased or decreased water intake, and other signs.

6. Drug Reactions

Some cats may experience hair loss and skin redness at the injection site after vaccinations or deworming treatments, which are usually mild allergic reactions or drug irritations. Worry not; just ensure the cat doesn't lick the area.

What to Do When Your Cat Suddenly Loses a Patch of Fur?

1. Observe the Condition of the Bald Spot

● If there are no apparent skin issues, it's best to keep an eye on it. New fur might grow back over time.

● If the skin shows signs of damage, bleeding, or discharge, it might be due to bites, bacterial infections, or overlicking. Clean the area with iodine and apply an antibiotic ointment such as Furetan (zinc oxide ointment) or Mupirocin ointment.

2. Use a Wood's Light to Inspect

For skin with dandruff or scabs, a Wood's light examination can help identify ringworm. Treatment involves trimming the surrounding fur, disinfecting the area with iodine, and applying antifungal medications like Piput (terbinafine hydrochloride spray) or Daxolyn (ketоконазол cream).

3. Visit a Veterinarian

If the bald spot continues to spread, it's advisable to take your cat to a vet for a skin scrape test to identify the specific pathogen. Additional tests, such as allergy screenings and hormone checks, may be necessary to pinpoint the cause.

In summary, a sudden patch of missing fur on a cat can stem from various causes. It's not always ringworm or eczema, especially if there are no obvious skin lesions. If you're unsure, it's best to observe for a few days. For a swift diagnosis, a prompt visit to the vet is highly recommended.