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Why does my cat's back fur keep ruffling and showing skin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 2 years and 9 months old | 10 lbs

My 3yr. old cats hair on her back looks ruffled and some of her skin shows what causes this? I brush her and it looks ok then later it's ruffledagain.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 10th, 2016

It's possible that Savannah may be grooming the area, causing the hair to ruffle and some to be lost. If there is any sign of a problem such as parasites, red itchy spots, or wounds in the area, that can alert you to what the problem may be. Cats can groom if stressed, if they have parasites such as fleas or ticks, and if they have allergies or infections on the skin causing irritation. If you see her licking, stopping her with the use of an Elizabethan (cone) collar may help. If you see parasites, treating them can also help. If the area seems to get worse, you see a visible wound, the area is painful, or it doesn't seem to get better, having a vet take a look is best.

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