Expert: Jessica - 4/6/2010

Question
Hello Jessica,

I have been having this problem with my longhair over the past few weeks. I knew he had fleas so I figured he was irritated and was of course going to scratch/bite at this skin. However, he actually started pulling out his hair and getting some bald spots. While I waited for his next dose of de-fleaer I was putting Aloe Vera lotion on the spots. I finally put Revolution on him a week ago and while the fleas seem to be gone he is still itching and pulling out the fur. I don't know if he could have developed a flea allergy all of a sudden and the irritation is just prolonging, or there is something in the Spring air. I havent fed any new foods so I don't think it'd be a food allergy.

Thanks for your help!

Kari

Answer
Hi Kari.  Cats can develop allergies over time, and a flea allergy is the most likely scenario.  Environmental allergies and food allergies could also be possibilities, since cats can suddenly develop these, too, but flea allergies are the number one cause of skin problems.  

The severe itch caused by an allergic reaction to flea bites can last for six weeks after you apply an effective flea treatment.  Unfortunately, all the damage he inflicts on his skin can lead to skin infections such as staph in the meantime.  The best idea would be to get him to a vet to have his skin checked out.  If the appearance of hair loss is consistent with an allergy, the vet will probably suggest giving him a cortisone injection to combat the allergic reaction.  The effects of the injection last about 6-8 weeks and should cover him until the allergens are out of his system if this is flea-related.

It is possible that he could have a condition unrelated to allergies, such as a fungal infection like ringworm, or a behavioral condition called psychogenic alopecia (obsessive compulsive grooming).  Mites such as mange or cheyletiella, or an auto immune disease may even be a possibility.  

There are lots of causes for irritated skin, so an experienced vet should have a close look at the pattern of hair loss and the condition of your cat's skin.  Most times, the vet will have a good idea of the problem just by your report of the kitty's behavior and the recent presence of fleas, but occasionally, a skin scraping or a fur culture might be necessary to determine the best course of treatment.

Best wishes!

Jessica