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Why is my cat losing hair in a quarter-sized spot on his arm?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 1 day old | 10 lbs

Hey! My name is Sara & I'm the pet owner of a kitty name Skipper. 2 days ago I saw a tiny scratch on Skippers arm but it was barley noticeable & he seemed his normal hyper self so I didn't it was huge. This morning though, I checked it again & saw hair loss the size of a quarter. Skipper seems definitely normal... he eats, runs, plays, the usual. Veterinary bills are extremely expensive so I was wondering if I could get some online help. I'm willing to take him if it's necessary.. thank you!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2018

Hi Sara! Thank you for using PetCoach! Skipper is very handsome! :) You know, this hairloss spot could be from many different things. Some possibilities (just to name a few): 1. ringworm 2. mange 3. bacterial infection 4. localized vaccination reaction (some vets vaccinate low down on the legs so check to see if your vet did this) 5. injury Since he doesn't seem to be bothered by it at this stage I would suggest you try some antifungal medication on it for a couple weeks to see if there is any resolution. If not, then I would take him to your vet for an exam. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Equate-Athletes-Foot-Antifungal-Cream-0-5-Oz/21950095 In case it is ringworm, be sure to wash your hands after touching that area! Hope this helps. Best wishes!

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 3rd, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your question. Based on the photos, I suspect that Tom may be dealing with a bacterial or fungal skin infection. I would recommend taking him to the veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. Tom may need a combination of topical and oral medications to treat this. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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