Expert: Becky - 3/7/2005

Question
Hi Becky-

I have a cat that is almost 1 yr. old and I'm noticing that he appears to be losing fur on the entire nape of his neck.  He is not actually bald but the fur does seem to be thinning and there is a very small scab.  He does scratch sometimes and has worn a collar all his life.  Any help will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Susan!

He is probably scratching more than you realize.  If there is a scab there, then he has scratched hard enough to break the skin.  Scratching will cause hair loss.  Make sure there are no fleas.  In some animals,  only ONE flea will drive them crazy.  He may have an allergy, and it may be nothing but he doesn't like the collar.  You will have to watch him closely and see how he does.  If it persists, take the collar off, and see if that helps.

God bless,
Becky