QUESTION
For the last three years my cat has lost her coat and developed sores over the summer months. This has normally cleared over the winter period or when she has been in a cattery. Following some recent mild weather, she has started to lose her fur and is constantly licking and scratching. The problem seems to be seasonal - what could this be and what is the treatment?
Bernard
ANSWER
Dear Bernard
If the problem disappears over winter or when the cat is away from home the problem is probably related to your house or the immediate environment. Things to look at are allergies eg. pollens or products used in the home. The pollens are likely still to be about in local catteries. It is also worth looking at causes of stress eg. different cats in the garden in warmer weather. Warmer weather tends to cause feral tom cats to roam as queens will be in season. Allergic or stress related skin disease is usually only treated if the skin becomes very sore and we usually have to use steroids. If the problem is allergic you can try eliminating chemicals in the house.
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