Atopy is a chronic problem, often requiring repeat treatments. Because the long-term use of steroids carries risks e. Diagnosing skin problems in cats is not always easy. It requires patience because several visits to the veterinarian are often necessary, with treatment trials often utilized to reveal the underlying cause. It may take weeks to months to clear up the lesions, as well as long-term management to keep the problem under control.
This post was written by Dr. Jennifer Ratigan, a veterinarian in Waynesboro, VA. Home News Views. Why is My Cat So Itchy? Published: October 24, The most commonly diagnosed include: Flea-bite hypersensitivity Other skin parasites e. See Also. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Your veterinarian will specify a diet, often one containing lamb or other meats not previously fed.
To help your veterinarian isolate the food allergy, you will need to follow the prescribed diet fully and carefully and avoid providing treats that do not comply with the diet. Food allergies cannot be diagnosed by a blood test or skin testing. Successful treatment depends on identification of the underlying cause. Cats with itching of unknown cause, or those in which treatment of the underlying disease does not eliminate the itching, require medical management. Usually, this means giving the cat prescription medication.
In addition, essential fatty acids may be added to the anti-itching treatment program. Also see professional content regarding pruritus Pruritus in Animals Pruritus is defined as an unpleasant sensation within the skin that provokes the desire to scratch. It is the most common dermatologic problem in both small and large animals.
Pruritus may be From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world.
The Veterinary Manual was first published in as a service to the community. The legacy of this great resource continues in the online and mobile app versions today. Image courtesy of www. Commonly, thinning hair or hair loss are noted in a symmetrical pattern.
A classical barbered hair pattern can also be seen as the hair shafts are broken and prickly. Cats, in particular, tend to present with these lesions on their sides and their belly. If you find yourself telling your pet to STOP licking or itching a few times a day, it is time to seek a medical opinion from your trusted vet. Employment Vet2Pet App. Why Does My Pet Excessively lick or itch? Here are the top reasons behind their behavior and what you can do about!
Reason 1: I am itchy! If your cat seems to vary in their itching across the year, or react particularly badly to certain areas of the garden, this can be a big clue. Your vet can perform tests on your cat to look for allergy reactions. Cats can also be intolerant or allergic to various foodstuffs. This can present as itching, or can be more gastrointestinal vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of weight — or both!
Chat to your vet for options. Infections of the skin by bacteria, fungi or yeasts can cause itchiness in cats, usually alongside sore, red patches of skin. Bacterial skin infections in cats are not hugely common but can be secondary to other issues. If diagnosed by your vet, improvement will likely be seen with courses of antibiotics. Similarly, yeast infections are not often seen as a primary concern but may need medication to resolve.
Fungal infections are not usually itchy. Smaller insects such as midges, flies and mosquitoes can cause fairly dramatic itching. Sadly, cats can be very sensitive to the insect saliva injected as they bite. Insects often pick the non-hairy areas to bite, such as the bridge of the nose or the ear-tips. Watch out for small red lumps on non-haired areas, especially in the summertime. Cats can groom themselves as a calming mechanism and overindulging in this can lead to sore patches of skin and bald patches — commonly on the tummy.
Consider this option if you have had your cat checked by a vet and they cannot find any known medical cause, and if you have had any recent changes to your household such as a new pet or building work. Itchy skin can be an irritating and distressing symptom for your cat.
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