Cat scratching face, hair loss, hotspots after switching to raw diet?

Question

My cat develops small hotspots on her face, chin and neck from scratching at itchy skin, resulting in hair loss. Her skin looks normal otherwise. Already confirmed no fleas or mites. Recently I switched her from canned food to raw and it's gotten a lot worse. Experimenting with different kinds of protein but no conclusive results yet. She's a messy eater in general, maybe she's getting bacterial infections from not cleaning herself after eating, and going raw has increased exposure to bacteria? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 years and 1 month old | 11 lbs

Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH · Accepted Answer

Hi there! If all else has been ruled out, then the itchy skin and hair loss around the neck and face could be caused by a food allergy. Food allergies are commonly caused by an allergy to a protein in the food such as chicken or beef. I would recommend a food trail or food allergy testing. The itching can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. I would discuss with your veterinarian about conducting a food trial or doing allergy testing (requiring a blood test). Bobby Jack may need antibiotics for the skin infection as well. I hope this helps and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Cat scratching face, hair loss, hotspots after switching to raw diet?

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