My indoor cat suddenly has a large bald spot. What could cause this?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old
Hi! This morning I noticed my cat is missing a large patch of fur, I know it wasn’t there yesterday. He’s a strictly indoor cat. I’m wondering if he had just got stuck under something in my house. I thought I should get another opinion online since my work hours don’t work well with my vet.
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 9th, 2018
This definitely looks likes a trauma area, where the hair was ripped out. I would monitor it for now, especially if Reggie doesn't seem to be bothered by it. It should start to heal and fill in if this was an isolated incident. However, if you start to notice other bald patches pop up, then a vet visit is needed to have some skin testing done and find out the underlying cause (fleas, mites, etc). I hope that Reggie recovers well. Best wishes and take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 26th, 2020
Thank you for the pictures, they are very helpful. This could be from an injury. It doesn't look infected, so I would just keep an eye on it for now. If it gets bigger or appears infected (redness, swelling, warm to the touch, pus), then Princess will have to see a vet for it. Keep in mind it can take several months for the fur to go back in fully. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 5th, 2017
I would recommend keeping the area as clean and dry as possible and avoiding any topical medication. You'll want to visit your local Veterinarian and request a possible antibiotic to prevent any secondary infection and treat any existing infection.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 13th, 2020
You can try using this Vetericyn Hot Spray on the affected area. If after a week of using it, the lesion is not looking better your vet should check him. You will also need to get him a cone collar to stop him from licking it. As long as he licks it, it will not heal. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-hot-spot-antimicrobial-gel-for-dogs https://www.amazon.com/s?k=elizabethan+collar+for+cats&crid=2Q0YY66ZKLO7W&sprefix=elizabethan+%2Caps%2C624&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_12
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 20th, 2017
An exam with your veterinarian would be the safe option. The spot could be due to local infection or irritation. Place an e-collar (cone) on Pepper to prevent further licking. This may be enough to allow healing, but if it is infection, your vet can dispense antibiotics.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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