Why is my new cat losing hair, has scabs, and seems inactive?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed
I just got a cat from my grandmother and it seems to have lost hair on its tail back legs and around the anus. The cat doesn't seem to be very active and when the cat dies move around it's for short time. It keeps meowing and walking around. I made sure that the food and water dish was full and also checked the litter box to ensure it was clean but nothing seems to help. It also has a lot of scabs on its neck.
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 14th, 2018
The areas of hair loss you have listed are somewhat consistent with a flea dermatitis. If Genie is not on a preventative, I would say that this is the most likely cause of the problem. The decrease in activity level could be from an overwhelming number of flea bites resulting in an anemia. Other causes of hair loss are from other allergies, primary or secondary dermatologic diseases, immune mediated diseases, or endocrinologic problems. Depending on how old Genie is, it might be in her best interest to be seen by a veterinarian and to have some diagnostic blood work drawn up. Hope this makes sense.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 12th, 2019
I would recommend taking her to the vet - it sounds like this new hair loss could be unrelated to the fleas. It's possible that Jinx also has developed an allergy or that she has another type of external parasite. In some rare cases cats will overgroom as a compulsive behavior as well.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 26th, 2018
He could have a dermatitis and/or a bacterial skin infection so he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause and treat. He may need an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory and your vet can prescribe.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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