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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.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

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.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    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!

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