Why is my senior cat losing hair, coughing, and still boney?

Question

My cat Sampson is 8 years old, he is losing hair at the base of his back (before his tail starts) and sometimes has random dry-coughing (almost choking) episodes. He was a full outdoor cat till last year, and from what I know never saw a vet. I've taken him in once since then (we live in the country) and he had all his shots up to date in November. He had worms in November and lost a lot of weight, since then he's gained a good amount back but he's still boney and I'm wondering if he's okay. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 8 years and 6 months old

Lotus Altholtz · Accepted Answer

Especially as Sampson was positive for worms in November and is an outdoor cat, it ideal to keep him on monthly Revolution for cats (a topical preventative against fleas, heartworm, roundworms, hookworms and ear mites). Hair loss at the base of the tail is likely due to flea allergy dermatitis and coughing could be due to lungworms, feline asthma, hairballs, or heart disease among other differentials. At his age, Sampson is considered senior/geriatric and a full panel of bloodwork including thyroid levels is recommended to rule out hyperthyroidism, liver, kidney disease among other things that can result in a poor body condition. A fecal exam is recommended as well as tapeworms are transmitted by fleas, can cause weight loss, and are not prevented by Revolution. A visit to the veterinarian for screening bloodwork, a fecal exam, screening chest radiographs, and examination of the hair loss at the base of the tail to rule out other conditions such as behavioral overgrooming/ringworm/endocrine disorders, etc. is recommended. In the best case scenario, the hair loss at the base of the of the tail is due to flea allergy dermatitis which can be alleviated with Revolution +/- topical steroid/antibiotic ointment/medicated shampoo if it is itchy, and the coughing is due to something as relatively benign as hairballs which can be alleviated by a prescription GI/hairball diet. As there are numerous other possible causes though, a full checkup and workup at your local veterinarian's would likely result in the best outcome. He is super handsome by the way!

Why is my senior cat losing hair, coughing, and still boney?

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