When cats have patches of missing hair, this is a sign of a health condition that must be addressed as quickly as possible. There are various reasons for hair loss in cats, including allergies and fleas. Read the information below to learn about three common causes of hair loss in cats and the need for a vet in Bowie.
Allergic Reaction
Just like humans, felines can have allergic reactions to foods, grass, and pollen. Flea allergies are also common in felines, and this can force the animals to itch incessantly and lose their hair. It can be difficult for pet owners to determine the cause of the allergy, especially if it’s located outdoors.
Individuals can schedule a veterinary appointment, and after examining the cat, the vet can prescribe a medication that will help to control the itching. Once the cat is kept away from the allergen, the symptoms will disappear.
Flea Infestation
When fleas infest cats, it causes them to itch uncontrollably because these small insects bite the skin of the cat to obtain a blood meal. Cats that are allergic to fleas will scratch and bite at their skin to try and get relief, which causes patches of their hair to fall out.
When a cat has fleas, it’s imperative to take the animal to the vet as soon as possible. A veterinarian will identify the fleas and administer a flea medication.
Demodectic or Notoedric Mange
There are two common types of mange that can cause hair loss in felines. Demodectic mange is caused by microscopic mites that live underneath a cat’s skin and cause hair loss. These mites cause a cat’s skin to itch and, when they scratch, skin sores often appear.
Notoedric mange is caused by tiny parasitic mites that irritate and infect a cat’s skin. These parasites cause cats to develop scaly patches on their skin, and they’ll also lose hair. After diagnosing the correct type of mange, a vet in Bowie will treat the mange with a topical solution or medication.
Individuals who have a cat that’s experiencing hair loss can schedule an appointment at Gambrills Veterinary. An experienced veterinarian will diagnose the cause of the hair loss and begin a treatment plan to remedy the condition.
