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My cat's losing fur, has red scabs on her back. Is it ringworm?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 years old | 10 lbs

My cat is losing fur and her skin is red with scabs on her lower back. She's also twitches in the area. I've been told it's possibly ringworm. I would appreciate any help.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on May 11th, 2017

Ringworm typically presents as lesions on the head and face. This area looks more indicative of a flea allergy or stress related licking. Cats with fleas will often develop an allergy where they start to lick and chew at the area on their lower back. This condition usually requires the cat be treated for the fleas and medication to reduce the itchiness. This could also be compulsive licking or another type of skin infection/allergy. I recommend having her seen by a veterinarian when possible for an exam and treatment. You may want to put a cone on her if she is licking the area to prevent her from further irritating it.

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