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Why are my 8-week-old Persian kittens losing hair and itching?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | 2 months old

5 Persian kittens 8 weeks old still nursing fine with the mom and eating kitten food as well. This week all 5 experienced significant hair loss all in the same places; behind the ears and neck area, inside of back legs and stomach. We had given the kittens a de-worming treatment (oral mix with food) at the beginning of the week but our Vet does not think this hair loss is some reaction to the treatment. Awaiting results from skin samples; no signs of lice or fleas; so significant itching

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2017

With this breed and the signs I would be worried about ringworm. Persian cats and other long-haired breeds are prone to this type of fungal infection and in fact the mother may have it and be what's called an asymptomatic carrier. I recommend practicing strict hygiene protocols with handling the kittens and discussing with your veterinarian if they feel they should be testing for ringworm. I agree with your veterinarian that this is unlikely to be a side effect of the medication previously given.

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