Common Cat Skin Conditions

We hate to see our beloved feline friends suffering any form of discomfort, and unfortunately skin conditions are often the culprit. The condition of a cat’s skin is often an indication of his/her general well-being, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out to see if your cat is suffering from a skin condition in any way.  

Some of the symptoms your cat might experience if suffering from a skin condition:

• Excessive scratching and grooming
• Dry, flaky skin
• Bald patches
• Lesions or lumps
• Blisters or pimples
• Red, raw areas
• Scabs that won’t heal

Just some of the most common skin complaints seen in cats, often seen in varying degrees of severity:

• Fleas: annoying critters, but treatable with flea control or prevention.

Symptoms include excessive scratching, resulting in raw and infected skin.

• Allergic dermatitis: an allergy to food, or flea bites.

Symptoms include scratching and small bumps which could get infected.

• Ear mites: if left untreated, can result in infection.

Symptoms include scratching of the ears.

• Feline acne:  caused by a variety of reasons including stress, an allergic reaction, or poor grooming.

Symptoms include pimples on the chin (very similar to humans).

• Bacterial / yeast infection: often occur as a result of another skin condition.

Symptoms present in a number of different ways, depending on the original cause.

• Ringworm: highly contagious fungal infection.

Symptoms include round red patches.

• Alopecia: Excessive grooming.

Symptoms include big bald patches.   Be sure to schedule a trip to your veterinarian for treatment as each case is unique. Be prepared to answer questions such as dietary and hygiene habits, as well as any environmental factors that could be influencing the condition. The good news that in many cases, a treatment of antibiotics or shampoos and creams will do the trick to get your furry friend back to good health! Regal has a product specifically for cats that will assist with a range of conditions, including  skin and coat health. Read more about the Cat Health Tonic.