exoticanimals

Cat Skin Disease

Cat skin disease is one of the most common reasons owners bring their cats to the vet. Skin issues can cause itching, fur loss, sores, and discomfort. Some are mild and easy to treat, while others can be contagious or linked to deeper health problems.
  • Skin problems range from fleas and mites to allergies and fungal infections.
  • Some conditions, like ringworm, can spread to humans.
  • Early treatment prevents infection and long-term discomfort.
  • Cats with skin issues often scratch, lick or bite themselves excessively.

Why does my cat get skin disease?

The cause of cat skin disease depends on the condition. Parasites like fleas and mites bite the skin and cause intense itching. Fungal infections such as ringworm attack the hair and skin, leading to bald patches. Food or environmental allergies can make the skin red and inflamed. Sometimes, constant scratching or licking breaks the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection. Because the causes vary, proper diagnosis is important to stop the cycle of itching and infection.

Types of Cat Skin Disease

Parasitic Skin Problems

Caused by fleas, ticks or mites that irritate the skin and cause scratching, sores, and scabs.

Fungal Infections

Ringworm is the most common. It causes round bald spots and can spread to other pets and humans.

Allergic Skin Disease

Triggered by food sensitivities, pollen, dust or flea saliva. Cats often lick or scratch until the skin becomes sore.

Bacterial Infections

Secondary infections that occur when open wounds from scratching or biting become infected.

Other Skin Conditions

Include autoimmune diseases, hormonal disorders or stress related over-grooming that damages the skin.
cat skin disease

Symptoms of Cat Skin Disease

Cats with skin disease may show:

Constant scratching, licking or biting

Cats with itchy or irritated skin often scratch with their paws or bite at the same spot repeatedly. Over time, this can make the skin raw or lead to open wounds.

Redness, scabs or sores

The skin may look red, swollen or inflamed. Sores and scabs are common when cats keep scratching or biting the affected area. If untreated, these can become painful infections.

Bad odor from the skin

Healthy cat skin should not smell. A foul odor often means a bacterial or yeast infection that needs treatment.

Bald patches or fur loss

You may notice areas where your cat’s fur has thinned out or fallen off. This is often caused by parasites, fungal infections like ringworm or the cat over-grooming to relieve discomfort.

Dry, flaky or greasy skin

Some cats develop dandruff-like flakes, while others may have greasy or oily patches. Both are signs of an underlying skin imbalance or infection.

Changes in behavior

Cats in discomfort may become irritable, hide more than usual or stop grooming themselves properly, leaving their coat looking messy or dull.

Cat Vet Service

Surgery

Soft Tissue Surgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, Castration, Spay, Caesarean Section

Blood Test

In-house lab for quick results.

Diagnosis

Accurate assessments to guide effective treatment.

Hospitalization

Comfortable ward for recovery and observation.

Home Care Support

Guidance for recovery at home.

Dentistry

Professional cleaning and dental care for pets.

Wound Treatment

From minor cuts to major injuries.

Vaccination

Protection against common diseases.

Vaccination

Protection against common diseases.

Digestive Care

Solutions for vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating.

Neutering

Safe procedures with fast recovery.

Urinalysis

Detect urinary and kidney problems early.

Cat Skin Disease FAQ

he most common ones we see are fleas, mites, fungal infections like ringworm and allergies. Each of these makes your cat itch and scratch. The tricky part is that they all look quite similar, so the safest way to know what’s really going on is with a vet check.

Yes, some of them can. Ringworm is the most common one, it can pass to people and even other pets at home. If you notice round bald patches or red skin, it’s best to treat it quickly to protect everyone in the family.

Look for red, sore or swollen areas. You might also see scabs, pus or notice a bad smell from the skin. Cats with infections often scratch or lick the same spot over and over, and the area just doesn’t seem to heal.

Bald patches usually mean there’s something irritating your cat’s skin. It could be fleas, mites, or fungal infections. Sometimes, cats also over-groom when they’re itchy or stressed. If the patches are spreading, or your cat seems uncomfortable, it’s time for a vet visit. Luckily you can visit Subang Jaya Vet great on handling this kind of problem.

Simply click the Appointment button on our website or call us directly. Online booking saves you time and ensures your cat gets.

Let Us Treat Your Pet 

Your pet deserves expert care – Book an appointment with our experienced vets today

cat skin disease
custom
© 2025 Exotic & Small Animals Medical Centre. All Rights Reserved.