Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. The hair loss in the area you describe, is nearly always due to Flea Allergy Dermatitis -- the allergic reaction that occurs from the flea saliva in the skin, after a flea bite. In order to treat this problem, the fleas need to be killed, and the allergic reaction needs to be controlled.

Even if you don't see the fleas, the saliva from a single flea bite can cause itching for days or more (like a mosquito bite in a person).

My usual recommendation in this case is to use a flea control product such as Frontline or Advantage. I usually recommend every 2 to 3 weeks, for 6-8 weeks total, in order to ensure optimum flea protection. I also start on an oral anti-flea product, such as Capstar or Sentinel, which are often useful in controlling the population in the area and ultimately improving the pet's comfort. We find that over the counter flea products are often not as reliable, and not as safe in many cats.

Prednisone is the main defense against the itching caused by the saliva -- as long as there's ongoing flea bites, the prednisone will be needed, I suspect.

You may want to have a professional pest control expert treat the yard and home, in order to kill any fleas or eggs or larvae still in the environment!

As for over the counter treatment, any hydrocortisone cream such as Cortaid should be helpful to some degree.

Expert:	Drew
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/21/2009

Veterinarian

Feline Medicine and Surgery