Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat thin, eating lots, and losing hair with bald spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

We have 2 cats, both male, brothers. Appear to get on well. One is quite thin although eats well and looks for food often. He is over-preening, at times biting himself. He has many areas of thinness and bald patches down his back, hips and legs. We have tried herbal medication from the vet which we added to his food. Also a topical solution which we applied topically. He is friendly and enjoys petting and does not appear anxious or stressed. Also treated for fleas and was checked for ringworm.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2017

Cats who are thin despite eating well who also have areas of baldness can be suffering from an endocrine disease called hyperthyroidism. I recommend getting his thyroid levels tested by a veterinarian who does this type of testing.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sometimes it can be from an allergy in the environment and other times it can be from a behavioral problem that started as a wound or allergy and is now an obsessive compulsive disorder. The patterns do appear to be more related to an allergy than a behavior but your vet can prescribe medication to help treat the underlying cause.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored