Reasons Why Your Cat Might Be Losing Fur

Scott Kessman

It is important to pay attention to a cats health issues and understand the various problems that they can face. These felines generally face a number of problems such as Cat fur loss, respiratory infections, feline distemper, worms, urinary tract infections, etc.

Cat fur loss is also known as alopecia and is one of the most common problems. It could be caused due to various ailments and health problems. While some shedding is a normal occurrence, severe loss of fur could indicate an underlying health problem. Some of the common reasons for fur loss could be ticks, mites, fleas, allergies, and glandular diseases.

Fleabite allergy is one of the most common causes of fur loss in cats. Cats are generally allergic to fleabites and this may cause an intense reaction for a very long time. Other parasitic attacks may cause cats to pull out fur and when the situation gets out of control the cats may actually chew themselves in order to get rid of the itching. This is a condition known as mange.

Long-haired cats and young kittens are prone to losing fur due to ringworm. In such cases, hair loss is seen around the face, ears, and feet. The cat will lose fur in small patches and the skin will become dull and gray.

Cat fur loss is generally seen in most cats that suffer from glandular diseases such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease, and hyperthyroidism. This type of fur loss happens in a symmetrical pattern on both sides. This may be caused due to overproduction of steroids by the adrenal glands.

Cat fur loss could also be due to psychogenic alopecia where the cat may pull out fur due to psychological reasons such as stress, nervousness, anxiety, or fear. Since cats are extremely sensitive to their surroundings, any change in the environment could cause allergic reactions to their skin.

Food allergies are also another common cause for fur loss in cats. If they feel itchy, they might scratch their whole bodies and this will lead to fur loss. Frequent licking due to pain may also lead to loss of fur.

Published by Scott Kessman

Scott Michael Kessman is a freelance writer and also the author of The Tales of Tanglewood YA fantasy series. The novels meld together Irish & Celtic mythology with modern-day folklore, and are enjoyed by al...  View profile

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