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What causes hair loss around my cat's eye? When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | neutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 12 lbs

Appears to be losing some hair around eye. 2nd photo shows this first photo is the other normal eye

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2017

Hi and thank you for your post.! It is hard to see and make out the detailing the pictures- there is a flash there. However, hair loss around an eye in cats may be suspicious to fungal infection (ringworm) which typically occurs around the face. A veterinarian can diagnosis this with a fungal culture. Sunshine may need to be on an anti fungal mediation if this is the diagnosis by your veterinarian. Best to you and Sunshine! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is a subtle difference, at least from the photos, between the eyes. If Sunshine is rubbing the eye that could account for the hair loss. Reasons for rubbing the eye could be allergies or an eye infection. Watch him closely and see if he is using his paw to rub that eye more than the other. You can also use an E-collar (cone) to prevent rubbing and see if the hair starts to regrow. If the hair loss continues to progress have him seen by your Vet. I hope this helps and good luck!

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