Cat Hair Loss

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Cat Hair Loss Difficult To Diagnose
By Wendy Simons

There are numerous causes of alopecia in felines and cat hair loss can be difficult to diagnose. Additionally, since most cats do not look in the mirror they have to count on their owners to notice the loss of hair, typically presented as an increase in shedding. Although, some illness or parasitic causes can cause drastic cat hair loss in a very short period of time.

Skin disorders are some of the most common causes of cat hair loss and symptoms include scratching and frequent licking of the fur. However, this can also be caused by an allergic reaction to something the cat has contacted. Antibiotics applied to the skin, nickel or other metals and even dyes and chemicals in carpets. If the cat hair loss began shortly after a new rug was installed in the home, it could be the culprit.

If the cat hair loss is primarily around the head, neck and upper body, it could be alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder and is usually not accompanied by signs of itching. Typically, recovery is usually spontaneous without medical assistance. Hair loss caused by a bacterial infection, often called Folliculitis, can be cured with antibiotics, which treat the underlying ailment, and hair growth will be restored.

Many Cats Lose Fur To Fleas

Many times cat hair loss is accompanied by an increase in the flea population on the animal. An abundance of fleas will usually be noticeable and once the flea problem is under control, the cat's hair will grow back. Proper diet, just as in humans, also plays a role in the health of your cat's coat. If the coat appears dry and lifeless, or if it appears the animal may have developed an allergy to a certain food, eliminated that food.

Through an elimination process you can determine which foods may cause an allergic reaction and cat hair loss and it is not uncommon for animals to develop an allergy to foods after consuming the same type for an extended period. If nothing else, your cat may appreciate a change of taste in its diet.

Cats that rarely have access to the outdoors that suddenly appear to suffer fleas or other diseases that cause it to shed at an alarming rate, should be thoroughly checked by your veterinarian. When they start to suffer cat hair loss it could be a sign of a more serious health issue and no cat wants to run around half bald.

Author Details:
Wendy Simons has a number of pets and simply loves writing about them and the many problems and solutions that come with them.

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Free Article: Cat Hair Loss

Cat Hair Loss Difficult To Diagnose By Wendy Simons

Cat Hair Loss Difficult To Diagnose
By Wendy Simons