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Why is my cat constantly scratching its tail base, no fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat has a very itchy back near the base of the tail, no fleas or visible coat issues demands to be scratched all the time, tried natural diet.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura E. McRae

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 9th, 2015

Even though you don't see any fleas, your cat could still be having an allergic reaction to fleas. It only takes the bite of one flea to set off the reaction, and itchiness over the base of the tail is classic flea allergic dermatitis. However, dermatitis can be brought on by other skin parasites (mosquitoes, mites, lice), bacterial and fungal skin infections, nutritional imbalances, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune disorders. Therefore, I recommend that you have your cat examined by your veterinarian for a full clinical work up.

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11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 16th, 2017

    It's possible that Shadow has fleas again and is extra sensitive to flea bites, or that he is itchy due to a food or environmental/seasonal allergy. You should flea comb him and look for flea dirt or live fleas, or make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss diagnosing and treating allergies.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 3rd, 2017

    He could have a skin infection, mites, allergies, or allergic dermatitis. You could bathe him with a shampoo, like Epi-soothe and see if that helps. Otherwise, have him examined by a vet for treatment. Your vet can do a skin scrape, culture, and/or cytology to help diagnose and then prescribe medications to help treat. He may need an antibiotic, anti-histamine, corticosteroid, and/or other medications to treat.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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