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Why is my cat losing hair on her legs after starting Hill's K/d?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 7.5 lbs

My cat started eating Hill's K/d at our vet's recommendation 1 and 1/2 months ago because her kidney blood test values were very slightly elevated. She now has developed significant hair loss on the outside of both legs.Her thyroid levels were ok at that time. What do you think is causing this problem?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 7th, 2017

Hair loss and overgrooming can be a sign of external parasites like fleas, a food allergy (although this is less likely at Greta's age), or an environmental allergy. Some cats can also overgroom as a reaction to pain or due to anxiety. I would recommend having Greta examined by your veterinarian to rule out fleas and discuss a potential allergy work up. I would not recommend changing her food until you talk to your vet - diet is the cornerstone of managing chronic kidney disease, and there are hypoallergenic kidney diets available if your veterinarian thinks Greta may have a food allergy.

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