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Why is my 10-year-old cat pulling out his hair and getting bald spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Longhair | Male | neutered | 10 years and 6 months old | 13 lbs

My 10-year-old male cat who lives with us with his littermate brother, has taken to pulling his hair out on his side above his right rear paw and eating it. When we catch him we stop him from eating it. He starting to get a bald spot where he pulls most of the hair out above his rear hind leg. We thought it was from anxiety and have been trying to treat him with TLC, but it’sLess but certainly hasn’t stopped. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2020

This can be a sign of a medical disease such as hyperthyroidism, which can be common in senior cats. I'd have Sweetie seen by a vet for this behavior. The vet can do a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis. I'd take him into a vet today if possible. Best of luck.

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