Why is My Cat Losing Hair in Plymouth Meeting, PA?

Have you noticed your cat losing her hair lately? Is this a new problem, or is it something she’s been dealing with off and on for most of her life? Regardless of the situation, if your cat is losing her hair, this may mean that something is wrong.

In the article below, we’ll walk you through six of the most common causes of hair loss in cats in Plymouth Meeting. Read through this information to see if you can figure out what’s wrong with your cat and determine when it might be time to speak to a veterinarian in Plymouth Meeting, PA for more information.

6 Reasons for Cats Losing Hair in Plymouth Meeting, PA

Some common reasons for cats losing their hair include, but aren’t limited to:

Normal Shedding

If you’re new to cat ownership, you may not be aware of what is normal in terms of cat shedding. Many cats shed a lot, especially during the hotter times of the year when their bodies are trying to deal with the increase in temperature outside.

If hair loss seems to fluctuate with the seasons, if it is all over your cat’s body, and if brushing seems to help, then you’re probably dealing with normal shedding. Of course, you can still talk to your vet if you’re unsure or have any further questions.

Pain Grooming

Cats who are in pain may lick or groom the area where the pain is located. This is done in an attempt to soothe the pain and help heal the problem, whether or not the licking can actually help. Your cat may frequently lick her joints, for example, if she suffers from arthritis.

Pain grooming can cause patchy hair loss in the location where the pain is present. This problem does not cause all-over hair loss, however, so if your cat is losing her hair all over her body, chances are good it isn’t because of pain grooming.

Allergies

Allergies can also be a cause of cats losing their hair. Some pollen allergies may cause cats to lose hair, but food allergies are most commonly the culprit. Cats who are allergic or intolerant to specific food ingredients may show signs of poor coat condition, thinning hair, hair loss, or dandruff, among other skin and coat problems.

Food allergies are easily treated. All you have to do is switch your cat to a food that does not contain the ingredient she’s allergic to. Figuring out which ingredient is the problem may take some trial and error, but when you solve the mystery, your cat’s coat will look better in no time.

Fleas

Fleas, especially when the infestation is severe, can cause hair loss in cats. If your cat’s hair loss is accompanied by frequent scratching, or if you see fleas or flea dirt on her skin or in her fur, then fleas are probably the cause of the hair loss.

Speak to your veterinarian in Plymouth Meeting if you’re dealing with a severe flea infestation, as your cat may need a medical flea bath. You should also talk to your vet about flea prevention options, and you should take time to thoroughly clean your cat’s bedding and vacuum all your floors.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is the medical term for an overactive thyroid. This condition causes an imbalance of hormones in the cat’s body and contributes to a wide range of symptoms, including frequent vomiting and diarrhea, rapid weight loss despite a voracious appetite, and patchy or all-over hair loss.

Hyperthyroidism may be able to be managed through medication, but you will need to work with your vet to figure out the best treatment course for your pet. Some cats may be good candidates for surgery to remove the thyroid altogether, but only your vet can tell you for sure about your pet.

Cancer

Although much less common than the other conditions listed here, cancer can still sometimes contribute to cats losing their hair. If your cat’s hair loss seems to be accompanied by severe illness, there’s a chance cancer could be the cause.

Similarly, however, some cancer treatments can also cause hair loss in cats. Chemotherapy may cause your cat’s hair to fall out in some rare cases. This is also not nearly as likely as other causes listed here, but if your cat is undergoing cancer treatments and starts losing her hair, it’s time for a vet checkup.

Learn More About Why Your Cat’s Losing Hair in Plymouth Meeting, PA

A cat who is losing her hair isn’t always necessarily sick, but hair loss can potentially be a sign of serious underlying conditions as well. This is why it’s crucial to monitor your cat closely and look for signs that anything else might be wrong with her to help you and your vet determine the cause.

By working with a trusted vet, you can make sure your cat gets the right diagnosis and is put on the proper treatment plan to help her start healing as soon as possible. For more information, or if you want to schedule an appointment to find out why your cat’s losing hair, call us today at The Village Vets Plymouth Meeting at (484) 820-1700. We always make sure your cat gets the proper care they need, when they need it.