my cat has been loosing some hair on his tale, theirs about a 2to3 inch bald spot right where his tale connects with his body. he's goes in and outside through out the day so he could have picked something up. also i found a scab on his right front leg last night and it is about the size of a dime. his leg looks kinda swollen around the area also. im just woundering what it could be and if i need to take him into the vet. also it seems like that back part of his body the hair is thinning but this could be from the change in seasons.
2007-06-07 10:39:30 · 10 answers · asked by SHELLTOE BISCUITS 3 in Pets ➔ Cats
I would take him to your vet for the swollen leg issue - this may be an abcess from a fight wound or thorn, etc. and need antibiotics before an infection starts up. Then at the same time ask about the hair loss. It may be due to a number of things; ringworm, flea allergy, thyroid problems etc... just a few suggestions, as we see a lot of those cases in the clinic where I work..
Good luck with your kitty!
:-D
2007-06-07 10:45:37 · answer #1 · answered by EJ 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Working in the veterinary microbiology field, I would suggest taking your cat to the vet to have it examined. As the last answer mentioned, this could be ringworm (caused by the fungus Microsporum) or it could be a bacterial infection. Fungal infections don't usually cause a scab but dry scaly skin and there usually isn't swelling. Your vet will have the experience to diagnose what type of infection it is and what type of treatment would be best if it is an infection. They will also be able to determine if it is seasonal shedding.
The area on the tail could have happened by your cat rubbing something regularly or if he got his tail caught on or in something. Again, your veterinarian could look this over and will probably be able to make a determination of the cause based on the exam.
If the vet does suggest that it could be ringworm, be careful because it can be tranferred to humans.
2007-06-07 10:47:28 · answer #2 · answered by TJ 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would certainly take your cat to the vet to get a proper diagnosis - it could be anything from ringworm to flea allergy to overgrooming (some cats, when stressed, repeatedly groom in one spot until bald.)
With the swollan leg as well, I think it would be common sense to book a vet appointment at the first opportunity.
Good luck
2007-06-07 10:44:58 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree it might be ringworm which, by the way, is a fungus, not an actual "worm". If the area around the scab is swollen, it might also indicate infection. A visit to the vet certainly couldn't hurt.
2007-06-07 10:46:54 · answer #4 · answered by july 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree, have him checked out by a vet. The scab on his leg might be, or could get infected if not treated properly. Good luck, and I hope he's okay.
2007-06-07 10:57:51 · answer #5 · answered by Very Confused 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is probally mange. Mange is a skin parasite and contatgious.There are a few different types of mange. Demodex Canis which is more of a skin rash. Sarcoptes Canis which is a mite, that can cause scabies. Common signs of this is swelling, redness, thick or discolored skin, HAIR LOSS, and puss. Cheyletiella is the last and not so serious... they call this one "walking dandruff" and you can get insectiside shampoos for this one. Unless, you cat has signs of Sarcoptes then wait a week see if there is any new hair growth and if it worsens take him to the kitty doctor. HOPE THIS HELPS.
2007-06-07 10:56:56 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Your cat has both fleas and an allergy to them. Start him on Frontline Plus right away and apply it monthly without fail. If he comes in your house, your home also has fleas and flea eggs in the carpet and furniture, I suggest vacuuming thoroughly, or boarding your animals for a day so you can bug bomb.
2007-06-07 10:45:06 · answer #7 · answered by JeN 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
This sounds like ringworm. Despite its name, it is a fungal infection. It can spread to people. Best bet is a visit to the vet to get treatment.
2007-06-07 10:41:36 · answer #8 · answered by ignoramus 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Have the vet check him out for allergies.
2007-06-07 10:53:46 · answer #9 · answered by Sharon S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
your cat could of got in a fight with a nother cat. I have 2 cats and that happend to them I left it alown and it got better.
2007-06-07 10:46:21 · answer #10 · answered by Ann 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋