Why is my cat losing hair on its tail and skin looks infected?

Question

I'm really worried about my cats skin , some hair on his tail is gone and it looks like infected. Not sure what could cause that. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 2 months old

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is a classic lesion seen with flea allergy dermatitis though other types of allergy are possible. It does look like it could be infected and that would have to be treated as well. It really comes down to figuring out what is causing his allergies so that they can be treated or the specific allergen avoided. There are many things that can cause allergies though in most cases they can be broken down into 3 big categories: flea, food and environmental allergies. Allergies are usually worked up in a stepwise fashion starting with flea allergies as this is the easiest and cheapest to take care of. If not on a flea preventative, then it would be a good idea to get started on one. If already on one then it would be a good idea to change to something else (there are many new products out in the market). If not improved in 1-3 months then it is time to move on and check for food allergies by switching to a novel diet (new protein and new carbohydrate). If that does not seem to be the issue then you are left out having to check for environmental allergies which require blood and/or skin tests. Allergies can be very frustrating to deal with at first but so rewarding at the end when we are able to treat them effectively!

Why is my cat losing hair on its tail and skin looks infected?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?

My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?

My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?

My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?

Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?

Share