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How to help cat scratching, licking, bumps, bald spots before vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

Our cat is scratching and licking a lot. We’ve noticed some bumps over the last couple weeks and a couple spots that are bald. Is there anything I can do to help until I can get an appointment with a vet?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2018

Poor Bany Girl! There are a few things you can try at home for her, but ultimately getting her into the vet for treatment is best. She may hate it, but you can try giving her an oatmeal bath. That may help soothe her skin, and temporarily relieve the itchiness. You can supplement her diet with fish oils containing omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids. These can help with skin inflammation. You can find some fish oil supplements for cats online or at a local pet store. Also encourage her to drink plenty of water, as dry skin can cause itchiness. Add water to her dry food, or mix in some canned food to get extra moisture into her diet. Give your vet a call to make an appointment for her in the next couple of days. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 6th, 2017

    You can try giving Ru a soothing bath in oatmeal, as that can help temporarily relieve itchiness in cats. Coconut oil won't help, and it's more likely that he will just lick it all off. Try the oatmeal baths, and have him seen by a vet either tomorrow or the next day.

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