Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat has a tiny hairless red spot on its face. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 17 lbs

Hello - this morning I noticed a tiny hairless spot on my cat's face with red skin beneath. He's not scratching it and doesn't seem particularly irritated by it. Any help in identifying what it is would be immensely appreciated. Thank you!

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 Lauren Celestin, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

Published on July 29th, 2017

Hi there! There are a few things this could be including, primary dermatological problem, trauma (especially if you have another cat in the house that could have swatted Hugo and scratched his face), or potentially tooth related. I would recommend having the area evaluated by a veterinarian for diagnostics like skin scrape for skin problems, clip/clean if trauma, and an oral exam/oral x-rays to identify a tooth related problem. Another option would be to continue to monitor the area. Any changes such as spreading hair loss, swelling, drainage, or if Hugo becomes bothered by the lesion he definitely needs to be seen by a veterinarian. I think it is worth going ahead and taking him in so that things do not progress. Hope this helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello! Poor Hugo. It's difficult to tell from the photo, but it looks mostly like a scratch or mild traumatic injury - if he's an outside kitty I'd be wondering if he might have had a run-in with another cat who swiped him with a claw on the face. Another thought based on that location, especially if the area feels swollen, is it could be related to an infected tooth. Tooth abscesses often present with a swelling and open sore on the cheek just below the eye - but if this is the case, it will be a bit tender and you'll start seeing some drainage. For now, my input is to keep it clean and dry. It looks pretty mild and dry in the photo so you may not need to do anything but monitor - but if necessary you can gently wash it with a mild soapy water (Dawn dish soap works well) and pat it dry with a clean towel. Watch for further redness, swelling, or discharge that would indicate an infection. And, of course, if it's not continuing to look better, the best bet will be to have a vet take a look, so your vet can check the rest of him out as well as do a good oral exam to see if his teeth are involved. Hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet 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
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
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