Skin Conditions in Cats: Vet-Recommended Care and Treatment

Is your cat scratching, licking, or losing fur? It could be the first sign of a hidden skin condition you can’t afford to ignore.

Unlike dogs, cats are masters at hiding discomfort. Skin problems in felines can easily go unnoticed until they become more serious, resulting in infections, inflammation, or behavioural changes. Whether it’s caused by parasites, allergies, or stress-related grooming habits, prompt attention is crucial.

In this vet-approved guide, we’ll walk you through the most common skin conditions in cats, how to spot them early, and what you can do to treat and prevent flare-ups. Every recommendation is based on veterinary insight — so you can feel confident caring for your cat’s skin at home or knowing when to seek professional help.

Your cat’s skin is one of the first places where underlying health issues can become visible. A healthy feline coat is sleek, soft, and free of flakes, sores, or bald patches. But if something’s off, you might notice:

• Frequent scratching or licking
• Bald spots or thinning fur
• Scabs or red patches
• Flaky or greasy coat
• Sensitivity when touched

Cats may also show discomfort in more subtle ways than dogs. Watch for behaviours like:

• Excessive grooming or fur chewing
• Hiding or increased irritability
• Avoiding petting
• Rubbing against furniture more often than usual

Even minor changes in grooming or coat condition can be early signs of a problem. Left untreated, small issues can quickly progress into more serious infections, inflammation, or behavioural stress. Regular skin checks and fast follow-up are essential.

Flea bites can cause an intense allergic reaction in sensitive cats, leading to extreme itching and skin trauma. Even a single flea can trigger a major flare-up.

Typical signs include:

• Intense scratching or over-grooming
• Red, inflamed skin, often on the lower back or tail base
• Scabs or hair loss along the spine and hindquarters
• Presence of flea dirt (tiny black specs)

Should I see my vet?

Yes. Flea allergy dermatitis should be managed with strict flea control, anti-itch treatments, and sometimes antibiotics for secondary infections. Your vet can help select the right flea prevention plan.

This condition presents as a cluster of small, crusty bumps on your cat’s skin, usually caused by an underlying allergy — commonly to fleas, food, or environmental triggers.

Typical signs include:

• Tiny scabs or crusts, often on the neck, back, or flanks
• Patchy hair loss
• Excessive grooming or licking
• Sensitive skin or flinching when touched

Should I see my vet?

Yes. Identifying the underlying cause is key. Your vet may recommend flea control, dietary changes, or allergy testing depending on the pattern of symptoms.

Feline acne is a relatively common issue, often seen on the chin or lips. It results from clogged hair follicles, sometimes due to plastic bowls, poor grooming, or underlying stress.

Typical signs include:

• Blackheads or small pimples on the chin
• Swollen or crusty skin around the mouth
• Inflammation or secondary infection if severe

Should I see my vet?

Mild cases may improve with gentle cleaning and switching to stainless steel or ceramic bowls. For moderate to severe cases, your vet may prescribe medicated wipes, antibiotics, or topical treatments.

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin, fur, and claws. It spreads easily through contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces and can affect humans.

Typical signs include:

• Circular bald patches with flaky or crusty edges
• Red or greyish skin at the centre of lesions
• Brittle or broken hair
• Itchiness may vary

Should I see my vet?

Yes. Ringworm should be confirmed with a fungal test. Treatment includes topical antifungals, oral medication, and cleaning the home environment to prevent reinfection.

This complex includes several immune-mediated conditions that cause sores or lesions on the skin, lips, or thighs. Triggers may include insect bites, allergies, or unknown irritants.

Typical signs include:

• Raised, red sores on the lips, belly, or thighs
• Ulcers or plaques with thickened skin
• Lesions that don’t heal or recur in the same spot

Should I see my vet?

Yes. Treatment often involves steroids, allergy management, or identifying triggers. These conditions can become chronic without proper care.

Diagnosing skin issues in cats can be tricky due to overlapping symptoms and their tendency to overgroom, which may hide visible signs. Vets use a combination of physical exams, lab tests, and patient history to uncover the cause.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Skin scrapings or swabs
  Used to check for mites, fungal infections, or bacterial overgrowth under a microscope.
  
  
• Fungal culture or Wood’s lamp exam
  Helps confirm ringworm or other fungal causes.
  
  
• Allergy testing
  Includes blood tests or intradermal skin testing to identify environmental triggers.
  
  
• Food elimination trial
  Involves feeding a strict limited-ingredient or hydrolysed diet for 8–12 weeks to diagnose food allergies.
  
  
• Biopsy or fine needle aspiration
  May be used to evaluate unexplained lumps, growths, or recurring lesions.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective, long-term relief. Always follow your vet’s instructions throughout the testing period.

A cat’s skin and coat depend heavily on proper nutrition. Poor-quality food or imbalanced diets can lead to dry skin, dull fur, or even allergic reactions. For cats with chronic skin issues, a dietary adjustment can make a noticeable difference.

Look for foods that are:

• Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory support
• Made with high-quality animal proteins to aid skin repair
• Fortified with nutrients like biotin, zinc, and vitamin E for coat health

For cats with suspected food allergies, switching to a hypoallergenic, hydrolysed, or novel protein diet may help resolve symptoms. Always consult your vet before making a major dietary change.

Related reading: Best Cat Food for Skin Allergies in Australia (2025 Vet Guide)

While any cat can develop skin issues, certain breeds are more prone due to their coat type, skin structure, or genetic factors.

Hairless Breeds

Breeds like the Sphynx and Peterbald lack a protective fur barrier, making them more prone to sunburn, oil buildup, and bacterial infections. They often require regular baths and sun protection.

Long-Haired Breeds

Persians, Ragdolls, and Maine Coons can experience matting, dandruff, and hotspots if their coats aren’t groomed regularly. Thick fur also traps moisture, which may contribute to yeast infections.

Allergy-Prone Breeds

Breeds such as the Oriental Shorthair or Devon Rex may have a genetic predisposition to allergies, making them more reactive to food or environmental triggers.

Knowing your cat’s breed-specific risks can help you prevent issues before they start, with tailored grooming, nutrition, and environmental care.

Routine care can go a long way in keeping your cat’s skin healthy and irritation-free. Here are five vet-recommended tips to help you prevent flare-ups and support coat health:

1. Brush regularly
   Regular brushing removes loose fur, prevents matting, and helps you spot skin problems early — even in short-haired cats.
   
   
2. Keep bedding and litter clean
   Dirty environments can contribute to skin infections or allergic reactions. Wash bedding often and scoop litter daily.
   
   
3. Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls
   Plastic bowls can harbour bacteria and contribute to chin acne. Switch to easier-to-clean, non-porous materials.
   
   
4. Limit sun exposure for hairless or light-coated breeds
   Protect sensitive skin by keeping your cat indoors during peak sun hours or using pet-safe sunscreen if needed.
   
   
5. Avoid harsh grooming products
   Use only vet-recommended or cat-specific shampoos if bathing is necessary. Human products can disrupt your cat’s natural skin barrier.
   
   

Can I treat my cat’s skin condition at home?
Some mild cases, like dry skin or mild acne, can be managed with improved hygiene and grooming. But ongoing or worsening symptoms should always be assessed by a vet.

Why is my cat over-grooming?
Excessive grooming can be a sign of pain, stress, allergies, or parasites. If you see bald spots or damaged skin, it’s time to consult your vet.

Is feline ringworm contagious?
Yes. Ringworm is a fungal infection that spreads easily between pets and people. Early diagnosis and environmental cleaning are essential.

How do I know if my cat has a food allergy?
The only reliable way to diagnose a food allergy is through a strict elimination diet. Your vet can guide you through this process.

Are some cats more prone to skin problems?
Yes. Hairless, long-haired, and allergy-sensitive breeds tend to be more at risk and may need more frequent skin care and vet checks.

Skin conditions in cats can range from minor annoyances to serious health concerns. Understanding the signs, knowing your cat’s breed-specific risks, and acting early can make all the difference.

With the right care, diet, and veterinary support, most feline skin issues can be managed effectively — helping your cat stay healthy, comfortable, and well-groomed. If in doubt, always consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe