Hair loss in cats: Causes & when to be concerned

Updated 06/09/2024

Alopecia in cats is a common kitty complaint. There are many different causes of cat hair loss which can range from allergies to stress. Although there are a range of reasons, it’s good to know some of the most typical topical feline fur loss problems found in our domesticated sidekicks.

Let’s find out more about what causes hair loss in cats, how to prevent potential cat hair loss, and whether there are any natural reasons for sudden alopecia in cats.

What causes hair loss in cats?

Cats with fur shed - it’s normal and natural, albeit a pain in the fluff! However, excessive shedding or sudden hair loss in cats could be a sign of something else at play. Here are some of the most common reasons for causes of hair loss in cats.

Food allergies

A lot of commercial cat foods can contain ingredients that do not agree with every kitty. Excessive itching, followed by fur loss, can be an indicator that your kitty has an intolerance to something. Let your vet know if you start to see them scratching more than usual or to the point they’re pulling out fur - they may recommend trying a sensitivity or hypoallergenic brand for 6-8 weeks to see if this has any effects.

Flea allergies

Like food allergies, intolerance to flea saliva can also create an itchy irritation for your feline friend. Over-scratching can escalate into cat hair loss, but this is a bit more easy to prevent. Make sure you have a flea treatment plan in place with your vet to stop them from picking up fleas in the first place. Regular treatment with a suitable and effective product will prevent fleas and other bugs.

Fungal infections

There are many different types of fungal infections out there, such as ringworm with its distinctive appearance as round lesions on the skin. Some fungal infections can also occur as a secondary infection if your kitty has an unhealed wound or sore. These can be very uncomfortable for cats, so be sure to take them to their vet if you notice sudden bald patches with red raw skin, scabbing, or blood.

Hormonal imbalances

Similarly to some humans who lose their hair, feline fur loss can be due to a hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately, this can be a genetic problem that your vet might not be able to do much about. They might be able to offer hormone therapy if they believe this is the case, but this is often expensive. So long as your cat isn’t in any pain or suffering, your vet may suggest letting nature take its course!

Excessive grooming

Overgrooming is often a clear sign of stress in cats. Cats can easily become stressed - loud noises, other animals, children, and even new pieces of furniture can make a cat anxious. This anxiety is taken out in the form of excessive grooming which can lead to bald patches and very sore skin. It’s important to identify the source of your cat’s stress so you can understand how to keep them calm. 

Preventing hair loss in cats

If you notice your cat is losing hair, or that it’s thinning in places, you need to take them to the vet as soon as possible. While cat hair loss isn’t an uncommon issue, it can be a sign of a serious illness like hyperthyroidism, allergies, or the possibility of a secondary infection. Your vet will likely offer some topical or oral treatment initially, or if they think it’s necessary they may offer a skin biopsy or other diagnostic tests.

In cases where cat hair loss is due to stress, their vet might advise trying to create a calmer environment in their home. Keep their familiar smells around their preferred sleeping areas, be aware of any possible disruption, and maybe use a plug-in pheromone adaptor to help them relax. Make sure your cat has their own safe space where they can hide out if you have guests or dogs visiting. Extreme cases of anxiety in cats might lead your vet to prescribe them anti-anxiety medication for a bit.

On a long-term basis, make sure you have a cat-friendly environment and discuss any changes with your vet at their regular checkups.

Some cat breeds are naturally hairless

Hairless cat breeds have been around for ages and should not be confused with cat hair loss. These bald babies are born without a piece of fur on them, a genetic trait that can only be passed on from one naked kitty to another. If you have a kitten that is born with fur and then develops bald patches or hair loss you must take them to your vet immediately.

Meet our veterinary expert, Holly

This article has been checked by veterinarian Holly Anne Hills BVM BVS BVMedSci. After graduating from the University of Nottingham, Holly spent two years working as a farm animal vet. She then spent some time traveling and volunteering in India, working at neutering clinics and with injured street dogs. Holly now works in small animal practice, and balances this with writing, volunteering with the comms team at Vet Sustain, and she is also a marine mammal medic!

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