Cat Health Problems Balding Spots
Cat skin health problems and balding spots on cats are caused by parasites and a few other ailments. One of the most difficult issues to resolve on the feline skin surface is ringworm.
This is a serious concern as it can be passed on by contact with humans and other animals. Sometimes cats are merely carriers and do not exhibit the symptoms themselves.
Once this problem has developed it can be very hard to get rid of. Ringworm is caused by a fungus which grows on the surface of the skin and in the base of the hairs themselves.
The ringworm ailment then releases toxins deep into the skin. This can cause annoying health problems like inflammation and itching and lead to balding spots .
These bald spots will have scaly patches and might look like dry skin. They can happen anywhere but common places are on the head, ears, front paws and back. Scratching at the irritation worsens the condition just as it would in humans because it spreads the fungus.
Cat Bald Spot Treatments
Ringworm is treated with lotions applied to the skin or tablets taken orally. The key to clearing up any ringworm infection is keeping after it even when it looks like you got it beat.
To stop the spread to other pets rigorous attention to hygiene after spending time with infected pets must be performed. The cat should also be isolated from other animals and direct human contact should be avoided as much as possible.
The bedding used by the cat should also be disposed of. It is also recommended and a good idea to dispose of food and water bowls, and either replace the litter box or steam clean it.
The items mentioned are usually inexpensive and replacing these basic items can help eliminate reappearances of the ringworm.
Skin Irritations can Cause Balding Spots
Another common cat related skin problem is dermatitis or eczema. This can arise from a number of causes.
Just as it affects humans, it can be a difficult task to establish the cause. Dermatitis or eczema takes the form of scaly patches on the skin, which may form into puss pockets and weep.
Keep in mind that in all cases, scratching worsens the condition. Contact dermatitis is caused by skin allergies to many different kinds of substances.
Detergents and other cleaning materials are the most common causes. For example a cat may rub itself against a cabinet that contains chemicals or has been wiped with a harsh cleaner. Even glass cleaners with ammonia can cause skin issues.
Allergic dermatitis can also be caused by a change in the felines food or diet. If your cat has recently changed its diet and has developed a skin problem it is best to go back to the original foods.
The main goal with dermatitis or any skin ailment is to prevent the cat from scratching it and making the condition much worse.
Your veterinarian can supply soothing sprays, powders or lotions, which will relieve the irritation. You’ll have to stick to the application plan laid out by the vet for it to be effective.
In extreme conditions pets may have to wear a restriction collar. It looks like a megaphone and prevents the cat from using its teeth to scratch open irritated areas.
Balding Spots On My Cat
Once the cat scratches a bald spot, a cut or a bite that breaks the skin can then become infected.
Signs of this are when the affected area shows sign of swelling. This can be a minor irritation or a major problem filled with pus known as an abscess.
You will need to keep an eye on the size of this lump. Applying a pad of cotton soaked in warm Epsom salt water can treat a minor abscess at home. If it worsens or you should have any questions don’t hesitate to visit the vet. They can prescribe antibiotics in stubborn situations.
Cat health problems, balding spots and skin irritations can take months to resolve but don’t give up, because your best friend is counting on you. Give this pet care page a bookmark or share it with a friend having this problem.
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