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My cat has a bald, flaky spot above his eye. Is it contagious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 4 months old | 9.5 lbs

My cat has a small bald, flaky spot just above his eye. I noticed it about 24 hours ago. It doesn't seem to be bothering him. I am wondering if this is something that will require an in person vet visit or medication. What may have caused it? Does it appear contagious?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 17th, 2022

I would recommend a vet visit. There is a possibility that this could be ringworm which is a contagious fungal infection. It may just be a scratch or abrasion but the vet can look at it and determine if further testing or treatment is needed.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 4th, 2018

    Hello. Thank you for using PetCoach. My best guess is that this is ringworm; very common in young cats. This can be contagious to people so you really need to get this figured out. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=1+2134&aid=223 Other possibilities for this type of lesion would be: bacterial skin infection, mites/mange, fleas and autoimmune disorder (just to name a few). Many skin diseases will look the same grossly so it is hard to say what it is just by looking at photo. My suggestion is to take Danny to your vet for an exam so he can get the appropriate treatment. Best wishes.

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    3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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