What is feline alopecia? How to fight it?

Cat alopecia is not a very common disorder but it is important to monitor it because, beyond having an aesthetic component, it can also be an indicator that there are other health problems such as allergies, infections, or stress.

At Kun-Kay we help you take care of your four-legged companion's health by offering you the best supplements to complement their diet. We make natural products to provide your little one exactly what they need to lead a healthy, long, and happy life, and we also make sure they find them irresistible so they can fully enjoy mealtime.

Alopecia in Cats

Besides offering you the highest quality products, at Kun-Kay we also provide you with the best advice to care for your pet. For example, on our blog you can find a guide with all the foods that cats can eat so you know what to share with your little one. On this occasion, we give you all the keys about alopecia in cats: we explain what it is, why it occurs, what the treatment is, and what to do to prevent its appearance. Stay with us and take note of all the keys!

1. What is feline alopecia?

Feline alopecia is a medical term used when the animal loses an excessive amount of hair. It should not be confused with simple shedding; cats with alopecia experience heavy hair loss that can lead to bald patches or areas. It is a problem that can appear for many reasons and, in some cases, may indicate a more severe health disorder.

2. Main causes of alopecia in cats

Alopecia in cats can appear for many different reasons. Bald patches usually appear due to excessive grooming or because the cat pulls out hair when feeling pain in a specific area.

Next, we will see all the causes that can cause this disorder:

  1. Flea bites: Fleas cause itching and redness of the skin. When scratching, the cat can pull out hair from the affected area, causing bald patches. Flea bites can become infected if not treated properly, creating crusts and scales on the skin that pull out hair when they detach.
  2. Mite infections: Mites can cause mange, a disease characterized by scaling, alopecia, and itching; leading to significant hair loss.
  3. Ringworm: It is a fungus that can cause hair loss on ears, head, and face. If not treated properly, it can make the skin scaly, dry, and crusty.
  4. Food and environmental allergies: Some cats may be allergic to different proteins, which manifests as excessive hair loss and the appearance of bumps and redness on the skin. They can also react to allergens present in the environment such as pollen or mites or dermatitis from contact with certain surfaces or substances.
  5. Endocrine disorders: An alteration of the endocrine cycle or hormonal imbalance can cause localized hair loss in certain areas.
  6. Stress, boredom, or environmental changes: Cats are very sensitive animals, and emotional discomfort can cause hair loss.
  7. Thyroid problems: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause alopecia, spots, and hot spots on the skin.

3. Diagnosis and treatment

Due to the wide variety of causes that can lead to this disorder, alopecia in cats should always be diagnosed by a veterinarian. For this, the professional will perform different physical exams to determine the origin of the problem (usually skin samples are taken, fungal cultures and blood tests are done, etc.).

Treatment will vary depending on the cause of alopecia. For example, fungal and mite infections will be treated with special shampoos, thyroid problems will require medication, and allergies will recommend a diet change or avoiding triggering agents. The fundamental thing, we reiterate, is to see the vet at any symptom.

4. Prevention of alopecia in cats

A healthy, complete, and balanced diet that provides your kitten with all the vitamins and minerals needed to grow healthy and happy is the best way to prevent possible ailments, problems, and diseases (Common diseases in cats).

We know you want the best for your pet, and that is why, at Kun-Kay, we offer you a wide range of cat supplements made 100% naturally and with a flavor they love.

Our products have been designed by professionals to provide your four-legged companion with the best vitamins for cats to complement their diet such as Supergreenkun, our flagship supplement to provide an extra supply of minerals, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber.

Additionally, we also have cat supplements specially designed to treat specific problems. We invite you to discover them!

To prevent alopecia in cats, the best option is Dermakun cats; a supplement specially designed to help you take care of your cat's skin and coat health. It also helps treat skin inflammations and itching and improves the appearance of poor or low-quality hair; it is especially important support during shedding seasons!

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