Cat Hair Loss
From LoveToKnow Cats
Instances of cat hair loss have increased in number over the past few years. There are many reasons why cats lose hair, but whatever the reason, it can be stressful for both you and your pet.
What Causes Cat Hair Loss?
You may notice that when you pet your cat a larger than normal amount of fur comes off in your hand. Maybe your cat has developed random bald patches. You may even notice a pattern of hair loss that starts at the head and moves backward, or at the tail and moves forward. Any of these signs can indicate that your cat is experiencing abnormal hair loss.
Hair loss can be due to many different factors, and it is up to you and your vet to decide which of these issues are causing the problem for your cat.
Stress
One of the leading causes of cat hair loss is stress. Some cats, like some people, handle stress better than others. Cats can become stressed by any change in their environment. Some of the factors that may cause stress in your pet are:
- Moving to a new home
- The addition of a new pet
- Schedule changes like you being away from home more
- A new person in the house
- A change in diet
Any of these things can cause enough stress in your cat to instigate fur loss. If you and your vet decide that stress is causing the loss, you will need to take measures to reduce stress in your cat's environment as well as make sure that she is receiving proper nutrition to help her body deal with the stresses. Sometimes something as simple as a new cat toy or some playful interaction with you will make the difference.
Nutritional Deficiency
There are many cat foods to chose from, each claiming to have the perfect nutritional blend for your pet. It can be confusing when it comes time to shop for food, and you may be tempted to switch from one to another.
Most vets recommend that you feed your cat just one variety of food. This way her nutritional needs are met consistently. It is important to avoid feeding your pet table scraps or human food treats. Your veterinarian can advise you which food will best meet the nutritional needs of your cat.
Allergies, Skin Problems and Fleas
Some cats lose hair as a result of environmental allergies. Often, after new carpet is laid in a house a cat that has not had skin problems before will begin to have them from the chemicals in the pile.
Other possibilities include:
- Carpet cleaning solutions
- New household cleaners
- Flea treatments
Your cat may also lose hair in response to fleas and mites. Check carefully for evidence of these parasites and talk to your vet about the different options available for treatment.
Build up of Toxins
Allergies can be an indicator of toxins in the system. Some vets believe that cats get toxins built up in their systems just like humans do. The environment is full of toxins: in food, water and in the air. Homes are full of chemicals, and materials that out gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other things that are toxic to a cat's body.
As these toxin levels build up in the cells of the body, the cat's organs are less and less able to filter them all out. For some people the answer is found with an herbal detox formula specifically for pets.
The formula works by assisting your pet's body to correct any imbalances or dysfunctions of the liver. It helps the body rid itself of toxins that may be suppressing proper metabolic functions. When there is a build up of toxins, the body can't provide proper nourishment to all of the cells, no mater how balanced the diet is.
Some detox formulas that have been created for cats are:
Talk to Your Vet
Sometimes the reasons for cat hair loss can't be identified. While hair loss in your pet can be disturbing, it is not dangerous to your pet as long as you take steps to protect her from the elements. However, fur loss can indicate an underlying health problem, so always discuss your concerns with your veterinarian and follow his or her advice.
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This page has been accessed 4,452 times. This page was last modified 05:10, 23 July 2008.
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