If your cat is scratching excessively, you’re probably searching for a solution. Often, a cat scratching too much is a sign of feline dermatitis. In this post, we’ll review what feline dermatitis is, what causes it, and how you can identify it.
What is Feline Dermatitis?
Feline dermatitis is simply inflammation and irritation of the cat’s skin. The inflammation can cause other symptoms and medical issues if not treated promptly. Feline dermatitis is also called cat dermatitis or feline miliary dermatitis.
What Causes Feline Dermatitis?
While feline dermatitis can have many causes, most cases can be attributed to allergic reactions or environmental irritants. Allergic reactions to fleas, their saliva, or foods are the most prevalent causes of feline dermatitis, but exposure to environmental irritants such as pollution can also cause the condition.
A few other minor causes of feline dermatitis include side effects to medications, mites, ringworm, infections, hormone imbalances, immune system disorders, and unbalanced diets.
Signs of Feline Dermatitis
Any dermatitis is characterized by uncontrollable itching that cannot be calmed no matter how much it is scratched. This makes for a miserable experience for the suffering cat. If you suspect feline dermatitis in your furry friend, be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- Excessive, insatiable scratching
- Open wounds
- Rashes
- Lesions
- Scabs
- Bald spots
- Unusual vocalizations
You know your cat best, so if something seems off about their actions or behavior, trust your gut and seek veterinary care.
Feline Dermatitis Treatment in Wesley Chapel
If your cat is showing signs of feline dermatitis, do not hesitate to seek treatment. Usually, just a simple flea treatment regimen or avoiding the offending foods can cure dermatitis, but only a trained veterinarian can definitively diagnose your cat with dermatitis or another condition. For more information or to bring your cat in for treatment on evenings or weekends, contact Pet Urgent Care of Wesley Chapel at 813-279-6500.