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My cat is overgrooming, losing hair, and has a red spot. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

My cat has been over grooming and now has missing hair on both side of his back and pairs of his legs.Also noticed a red circle on his back

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Oscar, and thank you for providing pictures, they are very helpful! That hair loss is severe! This overgrooming could be due to fleas, mites, allergies, or a medical condition such as hyperthyroidism. This overgrowing is so severe that it cannot be treated at home. You need to take him into the vet to get this diagnosed and treated. I would take him into the vet in the morning. I hope this helps!

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