Why does my cat have bald spots on his legs and only drink from tap?

Question

Hello. My cat has areas on his body that are quite bald, particularly on the insides of his rear legs. Have read that this is possible excessive cleaning due to stress. He also has a thing for lapping water from a running tap, yet he won't drink water from a bowl or other receptacle. On the whole he appears fine. He is eating normally and is a good weight. Please advise. Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

You are correct that this could be due to stress, but it is also a sign of itchiness from fleas, mites, or allergies. If Milo isn't up to date on his flea treatment, he will need a spot on treatment such as Advantage or Revolution. You will need to disinfect the environment as well. If he is up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into your vet for an exam. Your vet can do blood tests and skin scrapings to diagnose allergies, and mites. Once the cause of the itching is found, your vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. I recommend taking him into the vet today or tomorrow during normal business hours. It is common that cats like to drink water from a running water source, the water tastes fresher to them. I would recommend getting Milo a cat water fountain. It aerates the water, making it taste fresher, and it encourages them to drink. I have one for my own cats, and they love it. You can get them at pet stores or online.

Why does my cat have bald spots on his legs and only drink from tap?

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