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How to soothe my cat's itchy skin, scabs, and hair loss before vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 5 years and 3 months old | 15 lbs

My cat seems to be having some skin irritation resulting in: scabs, excessive licking, and hair loss. Is there anything I can do to relive itchiness or possible symptoms while awaiting vet appointment?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 12th, 2017

We often see these scabs, bald spots and itchiness with fleas. If you haven't checked closely for fleas yet, then it would be worthwhile. Here is a link that shows you how: http://www.wikihow.pet/Check-Cats-for-Fleas If you find fleas, then you can purchase products from the per store or from the veterinarian that will kill them. If you don't find fleas, then something else is irritating the skin. Check to make sure that there is not any new bedding, substance or spray that Atticus could be getting into. Also, the skin can become dry and flakey if bathed too frequently or bathed with an inappropriate product. If those tips don't help you solve the problem, then you can give her a little relief with a cool water bath and an oatmeal shampoo for cats. Try to gently remove the scabs, but don't scrub or apply too much pressure to them. Your vet will then be able to help to determine the cause and advise on additional treatment. I hope that helps and Atticus gets better soon.

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