Cat Hair Loss

Hair loss in cats, though not uncommon, can be a frightening experience for the owner.



There may be a variety of causes that can be linked to hair loss in cats. A lot of times, hair loss in cats can be cured by slight dietary adjustments. Allergies and parasitic attacks may also cause alopecia areata in cats. Sometimes due to poor cat health, hair loss may become more evident.



However, healthy food and a clean environment can usually help them restore their fur.

Causes of Hair Loss in Cats

• Hyperthyroidism: This is one of the most common disorders in felines and also one of the leading cat hair loss causes. There are several other symptoms of hyperthyroidism which are loss of weight, problems at the time of grooming, insatiable appetite, excessive thirst and urination. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with medication.
• Flea Infestation: A run in with fleas is pretty common with furry pets.
  
  
  
  If your cat’s skin is particularly sensitive, it may experience a lot of hair loss. Fleas cause itching and some cats may even remove their own fur by biting at the bothersome areas. Fleas can also pose other serious complications and therefore the cat should be treated for them immediately.
• Allergies: When cats have allergic reactions, they can often be seen itching. Allergic symptoms can get triggered off if the cat eats something that it is allergic to. It is difficult to identify the exact cause of the allergy and sometimes, this procedure may take a long time. Cats often experience hair loss because of their allergies but as soon as they are treated for their allergy, the fur begins to grow back and the skin irritations also begin to disappear.
  
• Mange: A cat may suffer from various forms of mange. The mites burrow deep down into the skin and cause rashes and irritation. While scratching themselves, the cats often end up injuring themselves or removing their fur.
  

Cat Hair Loss Diet

• High protein foods like meat, turkey and salmon can help the cat remain healthy. Other meat products are not as healthy for your cat as these. Fish based foods and turkey contains proteins which a cat can digest most readily. However, an excess of fish based foods can cause hyperthyroidism. To prevent your pet from developing hyperthyroidism, the cat diet should contain supplements of vitamin E and vitamin B.
  
• Cats seldom remain confined to the indoors. Their natural instincts of exploration and hunting are extremely strong and are very much alive, even in the most domesticated of cats. If your cat has a habit of going outdoors too often, it will serve you well to get it vaccinated.