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My cat is losing hair, scratching, and has scabs. Is it fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 17 years and 6 months old | 8 lbs

My 7 yr. old, male cat used to have long black hair. Can he develop a skin disease from being bitten by fleas? He has licked, scratched and pulled his own hair out. He doesn't come in the house any more but to eat, and never stops licking, chewing, and pulling out his hair. His whole back, tail and the back of his legs are mostly hairless, and he'll have patches of scabby bumps that come and go on his head and back. It's been happening about 2 yrs. I don't know what to do to help him?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 29th, 2017

I would recommend taking Rocky Road to a veterinarian as soon as you can. They can have allergies to fleas which can make them very itchy and then can develop a skin infection on top of having the flea allergy. It is not stated in the question but if Rocky Road is not on flea prevention I would recommend starting him on it. You can pick one up from your local veterinarian when you are there. At the veterinarian they can check for fleas and treat for fleas. They will also be able to give antibiotics if a skin infection has developed and it he is extremely itchy they can even give a steroid injection to help control the itch. I hope Rocky Road feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 18th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Ash! If Ash is allergic to fleas it would only take ONE flea to cause this much scratching. I would use a higher end flea preventative. I like Bravecto (topical that lasts 3 months) or Comfortis (monthly oral tablet). Other causes are allergies to food or the environment. If the higher end flea prevention doesn't work then I would change his food (avoid fish based diets and chicken if that is what he eats now). Sadly sometimes when they are this itchy they need to see a vet for relief. I wish you and Ash the best!

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