Fur Loss in Cats... what causes it?

Question

I'm going to try and explain this the best I can. Ok, we have around 15 or so outside cats, 1 of them, Tom, is really mean to the other cats and is protective over the food and sometimes won't let them eat. Anyway, lately, I've noticed a few of our cats have been losing fur. Under 1 of our cats, almost all of the fur has fallen out..and his legs are losing fur, too. Another cat, a female, is getting really skinny and losing some fur. The others are all pretty fat. We don't know if the mean cat, Tom, might be fighting with them and keeping them from eating and stuff or what else could be causing this sudden fur loss and weight loss (in 1 cat)... Other than those two things, they all seem fine. Though, tonight, we brought them all inside and two of them were covered in snow so I don't know if that might have something to do with it, too...Also; we have dog houses outside that the cats use, but again, I don't know if Tom might not be letting them into the dog houses. Help, please? =[

Also; we have dogs and ferrets, too, so if it is some sort of disease (god forbid), do you think the dogs/ferrets could get it? =\

We are now keeping the one cat, the one who isn't getting enough to eat, inside so we can keep a better eye on it... and we have Tom down in the basement so that maybe the other cats can rest easier.

No, their skin is not dry or flaky or inflamed, even. The only thing I notice is the fur loss and weight loss.

Answer 1

Often times when cats start losing fur it is over stress. They can be stressed out about the other cat or the fact that they aren't eating as much as they are used to because of Tom. But you should see if their skin is dry and flaky or inflamed because it could be something like mange which you would want to bring them to the vet to get treated right away. Also if there is an unusual scent to it, than it is probably a medical issue. I would make sure they are getting adequate food and if that doesn't help you should bring them to the vet. Make sure they are recieving proper shelter as well you don't want them freezing to death. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

These cats are feral is what I'm assuming. Well fur loss can be nutritional, mites, mange and other metabolic disorders like diabetes.Bummer. Some cities have a neuter and spay feral cat program in which the procedure is done and the cat is released. You can take them to a vet. Or you can feed them and let things take their course. Have a purrfect year. Things will get better.

Answer 3

It sounds like stress to me, maybe caused by the male Tom, since only two of them seem to have the problem. But I don't have any direct experience with that many cats all at once, so I would check with a vet. Do they all have their shots up to date? If not, there are a number of feline diseases that could be passed around and then you would have a real problem on your hands. Good luck!

Answer 4

What causes it?

Scorching!

Answer 5

fleas