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My cat just came home from being in the woods for a few days and has a huge bald spot in the middle of her chest. I remember her having those spots a year ago, fur will grow back after a while. What causes that?
Optional Information: Pet's Gender: Female Pet's Age: 10 Already Tried: Don't know what could help.
Hello,I am sorry to hear your girl is having some trouble/Does the skin look normal in that area?Is it only this one spot that has hair loss?How big is this spot?
Hi Candy,
usually the skin is normal in that area; she had hair losses before but in different areas. they come and go without real pattern, the only pattern seems to be that she gets those spots during the summer when she's outside hunting.
Thank you for the additional information.With her being gone for a few days at a time it is almost impossible to say for sure what she is doing to cause this. Some possible causes would be.* Flea Allergy/environmental allergy* Bacterial or fungal infections. I would expect the skin to be red itchy , painful or show other signs if this was the cause.* Fighting, the chest, face and hind end are the most common areas to see hair loss or injuries due to fighting.* This could be due to climbing trees going through brush under fences etc and the hair is being pulled out or rubbed off.* Thyroid problems. Hyperthyroidism is a very common problem in senior cats and this can cause hair loss.* Cushings can cause hair loss as well.If she has not had a senior exam recently by your vet and had senior blood work this would be beneficial to rule out any medical cause for the hair loss.In most cases the hair will go back however if due to something like Hyperthyroidism or Cushings it could take longer or not grow back at all.I hope this helps, please reply back if you have additional questionsCandyCandyR41038.0100482639
So, I hear you recommending an exam before I try anything else?
Thank you so much for your time!!
Sorry no that is not what I meant and it looks like a section of my answer did not post. I do think she should have an exam considering she is a senior kitty ,but not something that has to be rushed into. If the skin looks normal then there is really nothing you have to do . If it looks red inflamed, etc then I would clean the area daily with antibacterial soap and apply neosporin. If the area looks dry you can try using Vit E on the bald spots daily. I would also be sure you are using a good flea prevention.
Experience: Practicing Veterinary Technician for 23 years.Former Veterinary Practice Owner, Technician Trainer