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Ask the Veterinarian/My kitty's skin condition
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Question
I've had my cat ABBY for about 3 months. I'm told by her previous owner that she is about 2 years old. Since I've had her she'd had a large patch on her underbelly, closer to her hind legs, which is hairless and pink. Over time she's bit and licked at the patch, and it has become much redder (and much more troublesome) in that time. Any idea on what's the problem?
This is called "barbering" and it is very suggestive of some type of allergy. The cat's skin itches, so she bites it and chews off the hair. Ask your vet to treat her with a shot of DepoMedrol to see if it will take away the itch and allow regrowth of hairs.
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Ask the Veterinarian
Answers by Expert:
Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf
Expertise
Dermatology and ear diseases of dogs and cats
Experience
I am the author of "Small Animal Ear Diseases; An Illustrated Guide" published by W.B. Saunders. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with a special interest in dermatologic conditions and ear diseases.
Organizations
American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology
Publications
Veterinary Forum
Veterinary Medicine
Waltham Focus
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