Expert: Becky - 12/31/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have two indoor cats that have in the past six months started losing their fur around the sides and their back ends. One was treated with steroids for scratching. The scratching has gone but still no new fur. In fact, one seems to be losing even more. Our vet first thought it might be a flea allergy. I have used Frontline for this, and I have gotten rid of these. Could their diet be causing this? I give both Friskies Chef's Blend. Thanks for any information.
Answer -
Hi Patricia,
Yes, this could be a flea allergy or a food allergy. It's hard to tell without having your cat tested.  Your vet can do a skin scraping and check for parasites.  It might be a type of fungus too.   I would think your vet would be more knowlegeable about this since he can actually see your cat and "eyeball" the bare patches.   But to answer your question, yes, diet can definetley be the problem.  It is hard for me to say,not being able to see your cat.  Try different foods and see if it makes a difference.
By the way, my manx is very allergic to just ONE flea and will have large sores on her body if this occurs.  I also use frontline, but there have been times that I have forgotten to dose again and she has gotten a flea or two.  It takes months for her skin to heal.  So,  it may be allergies.  It's hard to say... sorry,  I know this is not much help.

God Bless,
Becky

Could you recommend some cat food that I might try to give my cats? Thanks

Answer
Hi Patricia!

Here is a link to an excellent cat food!
www.healthypetnet.com/iaa
Just copy the link and paste it to a search engine.  Then click on "Healthy Pet Net"

This food is a bit pricey, but you will feed less and I think it may take care of your problem.  If I were you, I would email them and ask about the hair loss problem you are having.

God bless and Happy New Year!
Becky