How can I help my cat with skin problems?
All cats that suffer from allergic skin disease are very itchy. At the first visit, your veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to alleviate the itch and inflammation in the skin. For all skin diseases, bathing your cat can help to reduce inflammation and soothe their skin.
Why does my cat have bad skin?
There can be many causes of feline skin disease and sometimes cats may be affected by more than one of these problems. Infectious causes: parasites – such as fleas, ear mites or harvest mites. Flea infestations and allergy to flea bites are a very common cause of skin disease in cats.
Can cats cause skin problems in humans?
The pet with whom you share your home and possibly your bed can transfer a skin disease or other disease to you. Cats and dogs can transfer a wide variety of diseases, called zoonotic diseases, to humans. Some of these diseases can have serious effects on your skin.
What are the symptoms of skin problems in cats?
Symptoms of Feline Skin Disorders. Symptoms of feline skin problems include: Dry, flaky cat skin. Red, irritated looking skin called skin lesions. Loss of hair (called cat alopecia, or the result of atopy see feline skin allergies above) A dry, dull-looking coat. Lumps or bumps on or under the skin.
What does it mean when a cat has a papule?
Macule: A macule is a area of the skin where there is a change in color. Common causes are some type of inflammation or injury. Papule: A papule is a type of lesion that is elevated. If it is large it is called plaque. This type of cell inflammation is commonly called a neoplasm (which refers to any type of cells, not just papules).
Why does my cat have red spots on her skin?
It is an area with increased redness or has a pale color when compared to surrounding areas. It is also referred to as a cat hive with symptoms such as severe itching. Common causes include certain foods or drugs, infection, insect bites or allergy.
Is it contagious for multiple cats to have itchy skin?
If multiple cats in the household are suffering from similar problems, then a contagious disease will be considered. Treatment is ultimately based on identifying the underlying cause of the cat skin condition. Mild conditions with just itch or flaking can be treated at home.
Why do cats have so many skin problems?
Skin Problems in Cats. Skin problems are one of the most common reasons cats are brought to the veterinarian. Itchy skin, compulsive chewing and hair loss are just some of the ways cats react when their skin is inflamed.
Why does my cat have patches on his face?
Skin Problems in Cats. Like us, cats can develop an allergy to just about any environmental allergen such as dust, mold, grass, pollen or even other animals. Affected cats rub at their face, scratch their ears and armpits, and may over-groom themselves, resulting in a patchy appearance as they chew off their fur.
What to do about a feline skin disease?
The treatment of feline skin disease depends on its specific cause. Flea infestation is treated by using appropriate flea control products to eliminate fleas from both the cat and its environment. Food allergies are usually treated by instituting a diet that does not contain components to which a cat is allergic.
What causes a cat to go to the vet?
Skin problems are one of the most common reasons cats are brought to the veterinarian. Itchy skin, compulsive chewing and hair loss are just some of the ways cats react when their skin is inflamed. Like many warm-blooded mammals, cats are susceptible to the itchy bite of the common flea.
