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Cat has scabs, bald spots, and chews. Is it allergies or fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 2 years old | 9 lbs

Hi My 1 1/2 year old DSH cat has a large scabby area on his rear back area plus a small bald spot on his head. Always chewing on himself. He's on monthly flea preventative. What can it be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

Poor Stevie! Some cats have allergies to other things besides fleas like dust, grass, trees, pollen, etc. It could also still be fleas if the fleas are in the environment since more flea preventative do not repel the fleas. I would recommend to treat the house and yard. Also talk to your vet about medicine to help with the itching like a steroid shot. I hope this helps.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 29th, 2019

    It looks like this bald spot is on her back near her tail - this is the most common place to see skin issues secondary to fleas. I'd recommend taking a flea comb and seeing if you find flea dirt or adult fleas. You could then try using a medication to kill adult fleas and a preventative. If you see any scabs or red skin, or if there is not evidence of fleas I'd recommend seeing your vet - allergies would also be a possibility.

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