Skin problems in cats

Overview

Because the skin of a cat is actually thinner and more sensitive to injury than human skin, it is not surprising that skin disorders are among the most common health problems in cats. Does your cat scratch and chew on his skin constantly? And what are those round, scaly patches on your kitten's face and paws? Why has your cat started losing a lot of hair? If these symptoms sound familiar, or if your pet has dry, flaky or irritated skin, he may be suffering from a skin disorder.

Diseases

The first thing you should do is rule out the possibility of a contagious disease – especially if you have other pets.

Sarcoptic mange mites (scabies), for example, cause frantic scratching. These mites also cause hair loss in cats, especially around the ears, face, and neck,which can become crusty and scabby. Sarcoptic mange is most often transmitted through direct contact with other animals or rarely via bedding, furniture, or other aspects of the environment. This mite can be passed from animals to humans and from humans to animals as well. Treatment most often consists of the application of topical anti-parasitic medications or injections with another anti-parasitic medication. Itchiness may worsen immediately after treatment begins, but most animals are back to normal 2-3 weeks after treatment. Sarcoptic mange is more common in dogs than in cats.

Demodetic mange (demodex) can also cause excessive scratching and grooming in cats. The symptoms of demodex in the cat are similar to those in the dog, including itching and hairloss around the face, ears, feet, and elbows. However, some cats only develop an ear infection when they are infected with demodex. Skin infections also occur when cats are affected with demodex due to skin trauma from excessive scratching. Demodex can be localized, or only affecting one small area, or systemic, affecting multiple areas on the cat’s skin. The mite that causes demodex in the cat is contagious between cats, especially if they have excessive close contact. Treatment usually involves a series of medicated dips, topical creams, injections of an anti-parasitic medication, or antibiotics if a skin infection develops.

Ringworm, also highly contagious, is a fungal infection that causes inflammation, scaly patches of skin, and hair loss in cats, particularly young cats or cats with long hair. Ringworm can be passed to other animals and to humans. Treatment may involve shampoo and creams available from your veterinarian. If you have multiple cats in your household, you may need to treat all the animals in the household to get rid of the ringworm. In severe cases, oral anti-fungal drugs may be prescribed. Ringworm may be particularly hard to eliminate if you have a cat who is immunosuppressed for any reason. If your cat frequently gets ringworm or if they cannot get rid of the infection, have your veterinarian check your cat for the feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), or any other sort of systemic illness.

Fleas

Fleas can also create serious skin problems for your cat. Continuous, persistent scratching can be the first sign that your cat is infested. Skin irritations and allergic reactions may be caused by flea bites, especially if your cat is especially sensitive to fleas. A single flea bite may cause your pet to itch for 7-10 days! Some cats are sensitive to the products used to kill fleas. An allergic reaction to the medication in a flea collar, for example, can cause redness and irritation on your cat's neck. Never use products that have been developed for dogs on your cat, and vice versa.

Allergies

Hay fever and allergies can manifest themselves in skin problems. Your cat's itching can indicate a sensitivity to various substances such as trees, mold, grasses, fleas, rugs, fabrics, and even food. Bathing is usually not attempted in the feline species, however, if you are bathing your cat too frequently or with the wrong product, such as a human shampoo, it can also promote skin problems. If your cat has a suspected food allergy, a special dietary trial may be indicated.

Seasonal changes

Some cats, just like people, may suffer from dry, flaky, itchy skin in the cold winter months, especially if they go outside. A dietary supplement that contains essential fatty acids may provide relief. You can also rub a topical pet conditioner into your cat's coat to help soothe irritated skin and restore lost moisture. A good diet, too, is essential to maintaining a healthy skin and coat.

Treatment

Always consult a veterinarian when your cat has skin problems or begins to lose hair. In some cases, corticosteroids and antihistamines may be used to control itching; however, it is important to rule out the major causes of itching before giving your cat a corticosteroid injection because of the danger of worsening their condition and uncovering serious health problems. Hair loss can be the first sign of more serious health conditions, such as hyperthyroidism and rarely Cushing’s disease in the cat. You and your veterinarian must determine what's making your cat itch and, ideally, eliminate it from his diet or environment. If a medical condition is causing your cats problems, a treatment plan should be started as soon as possible. 

References:

Carlson, Lisa D, D.V.M., and Giffin, James M., MD. Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook. New York:  Howell Book House, 2000.