Can Cats Have Alopecia?

Can cats have alopecia? You may have heard of alopecia in people. It is hair loss. This condition isn't limited to humans. It can be common in different types of animals including pet dogs and cats. This article will discuss the causes of and treatments of alopecia in cats.

When it comes to alopecia the hair loss can happen in different patterns as well as be partial or complete. The amount of hair loss can sometimes depend on the cause of the alopecia. The hair loss is typically the only symptom that you will notice with alopecia. If you notice hair loss in your cat and look closely at your pet's skin you may be able to see scabs and redness near the balding area. Bumps and sometimes skin loss can also be noticed.

Alopecia is different from shedding. Shedding is normal and a natural process that pets experience. Alopecia is a medical condition that can actually be treated in most cases. A veterinarian should be able to determine the cause of a cat's alopecia after performing different tests. Blood tests and x-rays are common when trying to diagnose the cause of alopecia.

Possible causes of this condition in cats include cancer, allergies, nervous disorders, parasites, fungal infections, hormonal imbalances, and heredity. Once the underlying cause of alopecia in a cat is determined, treatment can begin. There aren't a whole lot of treatment options for cats with alopecia, but there are at least some.

Your veterinarian will most likely prescribe medication that can kill parasites, cure infections, and help balance the cat's hormone secretion, topical ointments can also be put on the areas of the cat's body where the hair loss is occurring. Cancer can sometimes be treated, but the treatment isn't always effective. If a cat is causing their own hair loss because they have a nervous disorder, they will need help with their behavior, but there isn't a medication to cure them.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.