Kittens With Hair Loss & Scabs at the Tip of Their Tail

Watch kittens for tail chasing and chewing on themselves or each other, which may cause loss of hair (alopecia) and scabs at the tip of the tail. Hair loss with scabs can be full or partial, and can occur in symmetrical patterns. Look for areas of skin with hair loss that may be reddened, scaly or bumpy. The problem is common, and limited forms of treatment exist. Check cats and kittens, including the tail, for bites or injuries that may abscess and lead to scaly areas with loss of hair.

Causes

There are many causes of alopecia in cats. Some are more serious than others. Cats that "over-groom" themselves due to nervousness may cause hair loss. If the hair seems broken or chewed and is in an area where the cat can reach, this is a sign of behavioral causes. Parasites such as fleas, mange or fungal infections such as ringworm may cause scaly areas of skin with hair loss. Test cats for an imbalance of thyroid hormone levels and for Cushing's disease, an adrenal imbalance; both cause hair loss and scabs. Ask your veterinarian to test for cancer and organ dysfunction or anemia.

Diagnosis

Start with a full veterinary examination and a complete blood test. Look for thyroid or other hormonal imbalances, such as unusual presence of steroids and adrenal gland dysfunction. Hyperthyroidism is common in older cats. The veterinarian may suggest x-rays or a skin biopsy to determine a specific diagnosis. Check for hypersensitivities or allergic reactions to environmental factors such as food, bedding chemicals, detergents, medications or stress.

Treatment

Choose veterinary care specific to the underlying cause of the hair loss. Medications are helpful for thyroid or other hormonal imbalance. Topical treatments are the usual response to irritation or infection from parasites. Follow treatment with careful monitoring of the pet's coat and household areas frequented for the presence of parasites. Monitor the behavior of your cat for self-induced hair loss. Intervene to distract the pet and reduce stress in the home environment.

Management

Manage alopecia in cats through strict monitoring of symptoms and routine medical care. Watch for reactions to food, changes in the home environment or scratching behaviors. These symptoms could indicate exposure to a causative factor, such as fleas or other parasites. Comb your pet with a narrow-tooth flea comb frequently. When you find evidence of fleas such as "flea dirt"--little black specs--wash all bedding and vacuum areas where your pet lives. Test for parasites with fecal and urine samples on a regular basis and treat as necessary.

Prevention

There is no absolute prevention of alopecia in cats. Hereditary influences are possible but not common. Eliminate exposure to allergens out of doors or in food if that is the cause.