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Cat scratching ear/neck, bald spot. Could it be allergies? What now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Himalayan | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 6.6 lbs

Hi. Noushi has been scratching the area around her ear & neck alot recently. At first I thought It might be her ear, so I used some ear cleaner but it stop. Today I noticed a small bald area below her left ear which she scratches alot. Can it be food allergy ? How long does it take to grow back ? What should I do ? Thank you so much

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 21st, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There can be a variety of causes of itching and scratching around the head, neck, and ears. Flea allergy, fungal infection, ear infection, or perhaps a bacterial infection could be possibilities as well as allergies. Fleas like to hang out area the head and neck area and it only takes one flea bite to induce an allergic reaction to the bite. You may want to consider getting Noushmc on a flea preventative such as Revolution or Bravecto to rule out fleas as a possibility. Hair can grow back in 2-3 weeks. Of course, other causes exist such as the ones mentioned above so if the itching or balding spots do not improve, she'll need to see her veterinarian so a definitive diagnosis can be made. This may involve a skin scraping, fungal culture, and/or blood work in order to determine a cause. I hope this helps and thanks again for posting!

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