Feline hair loss is not something to be ignored. It can be caused by something as simple as a wrong diet to a disease that can be fatal. A feline who is experiencing hair loss should be separated from other animals and taken to a vet as soon as possible.
Causes
There are several causes for feline hair loss. It can be a simple as a bad diet, an allergy or it can be one of some very serious life-threatening diseases, which are the first things that have to be considered. Your vet will test your feline for Cushing's disease, Addison's disease, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. If these are ruled out, then it is time to look at the other possible causes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Cushing's Disease include increased appetite and thirst, and the feline will become less energetic. The skin may appear thin and the animal will not like to be petted. The amount of hair loss will be the same on both sides. Addison's disease is something the vet is likely to consider if the feline has a history of cancer. It can also be caused by a problem with the pituitary gland, but that is much less common. The symptoms are very similar to Cushing's Disease--listlessness, change and skin tone and loss of hair. Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common causes of hair loss. The feline will lose weight, stop grooming, constantly drink and eat and have an increase in urination. Hypothyroidism has one symptom that differs from hyperthyroidism. The animal will groom constantly. The others are the same--overeating, listlessness, dry coat and one that is very distinctive, weight gain.
Treatments
Medications do not work well in a feline with Cushing's Disease and it may be necessary to remove the adrenal glands. The feline will need to be on replacement therapy for the rest of its life. Addison's disease can be addressed with the removal of the adrenal gland or thyroid medications. Hyperthyroidism can include surgery or treatment with radioactive iodine. Hypothyroidism is treated by hormone supplements.
Prevention/Solution
The diseases that cause feline hair loss cannot be prevented, but regular vet visits can result in early diagnoses. Make sure the animal gets a cat food whose main ingredient is meat or fish. Vitamin E and/or B can be helpful, but a feline cannot take the same dose as a human and it should be prescribed by a vet. All cats, both indoor and outdoor, should get flea treatments and regular vaccinations.
Potential
Feline hair loss is a sign that something serious could be going on. Some of the causes can be fatal, but even if it is not, the feline should be examined by a vet or you have the potential of having the animal pass away. Hair loss should be considered a red flag.
