Many cat owners are troubled
by the loss of hair in their cats. Get more information on hair loss in
cats and know what leads to feline hair loss.
Hair Loss in Cats
Hair Loss or 'Alopecia'
is a common feline disorder and may be symptomatic of various fatal
ailments in cats. Though losing a few strands of hair is considered as
quite normal, but sometimes various malfunctions in the body may surface
up in the form of acute hair loss. Hair loss in cats may be noticed
either as impaired growth of new hair or loss of hair in patches from
specific parts of the body. At times, the coat of the animal feels
grimy, or the hairs look dry and frail. Most of the time, you will find
an alopecic cat scratching or biting himself. These counteractive
measures might sometimes lead to other serious skin conditions. Go
though this article to know more about feline alopecia.
Causes of Alopecia
Read about the various physical and psychological anomalies that lead
to Alopecia in cats.
- Mites, fleas or other parasites may give rise to hair loss in
areas like the inner thighs and abdominal areas.
- Certain allergic reactions from food, especially the intake of
certain proteins generally leads to the problem.
- Inhaling allergens such as pollens, molds or house dust mites
causes 'Atopy' (allergic inhalant dermatitis) and leads to hair
loss.
- Fungal infections like ringworm cause circular patches of hair
loss in the head, body and the ears.
- Malfunctions (either a deficit or a surplus) of the hair growth
hormones lead to Endocrine Alopecia in cats.
- Psychogenic Alopecia is brought about by various psychological
problems like anxiety, stress, fear or nervousness.
Remedy for Alopecia
Sample these remedies to get rid of Alopecia in cats.
- Provide your kitty with a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
Avoid giving her table-scraps or off-brand cat foods.
- If the condition is due to stress, provide her with a fun
environment with a lot of scope for recreation.
- To prevent your cat from inhaling allergens, use an air purifier
and vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly.
- You can also try administering certain anti-depressant or
anti-anxiety medication after proper medical counseling.
- The veterinarian may also put the animal in a three month
experimental diet consisting of proteins and carbohydrates.
- Certain medicated soaps, ointments and lotions are also available
to cure the disease. Consult your veterinarian.
- If hair loss is induced due to hormonal imbalance, your cat might
also have to undergo certain hormone therapies.
