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Why is my cat pulling out her tail hair and has a bald spot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat is pulling her hair out at base of tail to about mid of the tail and has it completely bald there is no irritation of any type what could it be

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 13th, 2015

The most common cause of hair loss around the tail is from flea allergies so I would definitely check her thoroughly for fleas. Other possibly causes are anal gland problems, seasonal allergies, ringworm, mites, infections. She should be examined by a vet to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

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57Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 2nd, 2017

    Poor Samantha! This is typical of cat with fleas, and if she isn't up to date on her flea treatments, I can give you one for her. First, I would give her Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash her bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. Should Samantha be up to date on her flea treatments, then this behavior could be due to mites, allergies, or ringworm. In this case, I would have her seen by a vet tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the hair loss is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 8th, 2019

    She could have external parasites like fleas or mites, allergies or an infection like ringworm. If she is losing large amounts of hair it sounds like she should be seen by a vet if you are able to catch her to take her in. If she is very skittish and fearful she may need to be sedated for her exam, although if she is used to being handled this may not be necessary.

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