Cat Skin Problems: Itching, Hair Loss and Skin Infections

Skin problems in cats can look very similar to one another: scabs, bald patches, over-grooming and scratching. The cause, however, varies widely, and so does the treatment. A quick look under the microscope often gives the answer during the visit.

What you might see

Small crusty scabs along the back and neck (vets call this "miliary dermatitis")
Bald patches on the belly or inner thighs from over-licking. These are often mistaken for "hair falling out"
Round, scaly bald patches on the face, ears or paws (classic ringworm)
Dark, coffee-ground wax in the ears, and head shaking
Scratching around the head and neck, sometimes with open sores
Red, raised sores on the lip or belly
Black specks in the fur (flea dirt). On a damp white tissue they dissolve into red-brown smudges

Common causes

1. Fleas and flea allergy: the top cause. Even one or two flea bites can trigger intense itching in an allergic cat, and you may never see a live flea. Indoor cats in apartments get fleas too, carried in on clothes or by other pets.

2. Ringworm (dermatophytosis): a fungal infection, not a worm. Very common in kittens from shelters, rescues and pet shops. It can spread to people, especially children, as red, ring-shaped itchy patches. Treatment takes weeks and includes cleaning the home.

3. Ear mites: common in kittens. They cause dark ear wax and scratching that leads to sores behind the ears.

4. Other mites: Notoedres (feline scabies) causes intense itching and crusting on the head and ears. Less common mites include Demodex and Cheyletiella.

5. Allergies: food allergy (often to a protein such as chicken or fish) or environmental allergy (dust mites, pollen) causes itching, over-grooming and recurring sores.

6. Stress-related over-grooming: a cat may lick its belly bald after a house move, a new pet or a change in routine. Rule out other causes before blaming stress.

7. Bacterial or yeast infection: usually secondary to scratching.

What we do at the clinic

Our in-house lab lets us check most of these during the visit:

Flea combing and the wet-paper test for flea dirt.
Skin scraping and tape impressions under the microscope for mites.
Ear cytology for mites, yeast and bacteria.
Wood's lamp screening and hair plucks under the microscope for ringworm. Fungal culture is sent out when needed.
A food elimination trial plan, if food allergy is suspected. It takes 8 weeks of a strict special diet.

Never use dog flea products on cats. Many dog spot-ons and sprays contain permethrin, which causes tremors, seizures and death in cats. Use only products labelled for cats, at the correct weight dose.

Treatment and home care

Treat all pets in the home for fleas, every month, and wash bedding in hot water.
Ringworm: medicated baths or dips, oral antifungal medicine, and daily vacuuming and disinfecting. Spores survive for months in the home.
Ear mites: ear treatment for all cats and dogs in the house.
Allergies: long-term control rather than a cure, with diet, flea control and anti-itch medicines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I catch my cat's skin problem?
Ringworm and some mites can affect people. Flea bites can cause itchy spots on ankles. Wash hands after handling, and see your doctor if you notice skin changes.

Is coconut oil good for cat skin?
It may soothe dry skin a little, but it won't treat fleas, mites or ringworm, and cats will lick it off. Get a diagnosis first.

How long does ringworm take to clear?
Usually 6–10 weeks, or longer in long-haired cats. We confirm a cure with repeat tests, not just by looking.