Common Triggers for Feline Eczema in Cats

Section 1: Symptoms of Feline Eczema

The most apparent sign of feline eczema is the constant scratching by the cat at the affected areas. Particularly during the damp and chilly winters in the southern regions, cats are more susceptible to this condition. However, due to their long and thick fur, eczema in cats can often go unnoticed. If you notice your cat frequently scratching its skin, it's crucial to inspect its fur thoroughly. Early detection and treatment are essential!

The symptoms of feline eczema include redness, blood spots, blisters, erosions, and scales on the affected areas, accompanied by itching, pain, and fever. Eczema is a type of skin disease that can cause bumps, rashes, itching, and hair loss. The clinical manifestations of eczema in cats are categorized into acute and chronic forms:

1. Acute eczema in cats is characterized by red or papular eruptions on the skin, usually starting on the face and back. These often appear on the bridge of the nose, around the eyes, and on the cheeks, and can easily spread, forming small blisters. After the blisters break, local erosions occur. Due to the intense itching, the affected cat may continuously lick the area, leading to increased moisture and exacerbating the skin papular symptoms.

2. Chronic eczema in cats has a longer duration and is characterized by thickened skin, scaling, and an abundance of dandruff. Although the skin's moisture may improve, itching can persist and even worsen.

One common clinical form of eczema in cats is eczematous rhinitis, where the nose area develops lupus or bullous lesions, leading to scabbing. Sometimes, there may be serous and ulcerative areas. In cases of systemic and discoid lupus, the nose area can exhibit discoloration and ulcers.

Section 2: Causes of Feline Eczema

The causes of feline eczema can be categorized into external and internal factors:

1. External factors include poor skin hygiene in cats, damp living environments, excessive sun exposure, external stimuli, and insect bites.

2. Internal factors include allergic reactions triggered by various factors, nutritional imbalances, and certain diseases that can weaken a cat's immune and resistance systems.

Section 3: Diagnosing Feline Eczema

The diagnosis of eczema should focus on identifying the underlying cause. This involves a thorough medical history, skin scraping analysis, and relevant laboratory tests. While diagnosis is generally based on clinical symptoms, the process can be complex.

Section 4: Treating Feline Eczema

1. Treatment should be initiated based on a confirmed diagnosis and should be comprehensive. This includes measures such as relieving itching, inflammation, desensitization, enhancing nutrition, and maintaining a clean environment for the cat.

2. If you suspect your cat has eczema, it's vital to seek treatment promptly. Delaying can lead to more severe symptoms. Pet owners should be cautious: avoid taking cats to dirty or disorderly places during summer, and during winter, encourage them to enjoy the sun, which is beneficial for both their health and skin.

That concludes Dr. Oxygen's introduction to feline eczema. We hope all pet owners take the time to read and understand the causes of eczema, take preventive measures in daily life, and protect the health of their beloved pets, reducing the likelihood of cats contracting eczema!