Why is my senior cat losing fur and has a rash? Is it serious?

Question

My 17 y/o cats fur is clumping and after brushing him the clumps come out pretty easily and there are a few bare patches. I've now noticed a dark red rash at the base of his tail only. He has not been scratching or acting different in any way. I'm unable to take him to the vet at this time due to financial difficulties. Is there a possibility this could be something relatively minor? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 17 years and 3 months old | 10 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Oh no, poor Paddy! Unfortunately without seeing him in person, I can't say for certain if this is something relatively minor. A rash in cats could be caused by an infection (bacteria or yeast), allergies, or insects (fleas, mites). This would also cause fur loss. In a senior cat, hyperthyroidism could cause hair loss. Make sure he is up to date on his flea treatments, giving him one such as Revolution or Advantage if he isn't. You will have to disinfect the environment as well. I would have him seen by a vet for this though, and I can give you a number of resources that may help you afford a vet. He does need a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis to check on his overall health, and these tests can help diagnose if he does have hyperthyroidism or not, which is very common in senior cats. Once the cause of his symptoms is diagnosed, the vet can prescribe treatment for him. Affording a vet: You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ The Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides financial assistance to cat and kitten guardians who are unable to afford veterinary services to save their companions when life-threatening illness or injury strikes.  God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.  The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.  Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. IMOM is dedicated to insure that no companion animal has to be euthanized simply because their caretaker is financially challenged.

Why is my senior cat losing fur and has a rash? Is it serious?

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