Sudden cat hair loss can be dramatic and upsetting to owners. Be especially vigilant if you have a white cat these felines have a higher incidence than others of squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer in cats, often noted on the tips of the ears, eyelids, and nose. Some examples are infectious diseases such as viruses, fungus, or bacteria autoimmune disease, or even cancer. There are many other causes of persistent sores, and all require medical attention. Sores on the upper lip may be what’s known as a rodent ulcer, an ulcerative skin disease often associated with allergies. Little red lesions may appear innocuous at first, but any persistent sore that doesn’t resolve on its own should be evaluated by your veterinarian. Have your veterinarian check out any strange lumps and bumps. If your cat is suddenly hiding, resisting your touch, or has any unusual behavior changes, he may be in pain. This can cause a disproportionate amount of pain compared to what looks like a small wound. A small bump or lesion on the outside can mask a large pocket of pus and debris under the skin. Masses and swellings are notoriously difficult to diagnose without diagnostic tests such as aspirates and biopsies, but it’s necessary in order to determine the cause.ĭespite the constant fear of cat cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cause of skin swelling in cats is abscesses. Skin swelling represents almost a third of all the skin cases that present to veterinarians, according to one 2006 study. Here are some of the most common cat skin problems, and what you can do about them. But even the most stoic cat can have a hard time hiding what’s plainly visible to the naked eye: skin disease.
Itchy Cat? How to Identify and Resolve Skin Problems in CatsĬats are known as secretive beings, and as any cat owner knows they can be very good at hiding the early signs of disease.