Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 1/6/2006

Question
Hello doctor I have a dark brown bob tail manx cat its a semi long hair and recently the cat has been losing alot of hair on its tail and Hind quarters where now you can see skin this all popped up in the last 2 months , Hes 5 yrs old and we have always fed him wet and dry friskies cat food canned at night and a little dry food in the morning . and hes recently had all his shots at the vet so whats up with this problem Why is he losing hair reminder  this is only on his hind legs and  tail area and tummy area too . any help u can give would be deeply appreciated  Thanks you so much ralph smith ...... Portland oregon

Answer
THe hair loss in these areas is most likely the cat licking and chewing at his itchy skin.  Check carefully to see if there is hair stubble in these areas.  Often your vet can give the cat a shot of some cortisone to relieve the itching and that may take away the hair loss.