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Why is my cat shedding, losing tail hair, and has white skin flakes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 5 years and 1 month old | 10 lbs

Hello, my cat has been shedding more than usual lately (big clumps of hair). Today I noticed that his tail is balding and has white flakes on the skin.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2017

Miles' hair loss could be related to primary skin issues, such as allergies, ringworm or mange, or related to endocrine/metabolic conditions, such as hyperthyroidism. This is certainly not a normal finding and I recommend taking Miles to his vet for evaluation and diagnostic testing so that treatment can be started for the issue at hand. I hope that all goes well!

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