Scabs on my Cat - why?

madget_2

meritaten wrote: »

Barnes is on Steroids and antibiotics (I write his nightly blog for him on here, titled 'grandcat having extended sleepover') - yes, the flea allergy dermatitis was that bad! I would think this would be the first thought a vet has when faced with a 'scabby cat'. and its probably most often the right diagnosis.
my previous cat WAS FIV - so I know that scabby skin is one symptom. they don't always seem poorly either - so if you have an outdoor cat its worth asking for the blood test, if the symptoms persist despite being 'flea free'.
oh and the affected area being mainly around the neck and shoulders point to it being fleas - if he was scabby ALL over - I would be far more worried!

Yes, my two were initially diagnosed as having a flea bite allergy (although their allergies turned out to be to due to other factors instead).


As well as the head and neck area, flea bite allergy can also affect the rear end and tail. One of my cats develops severe scabs and sores on her stomach and abdomen when affected (she's allergic to mites).


Do keep an eye on him. As other posters have said, the scabs can become infected. Cats can also develop a scratching habit, even after an allergic reaction has been controlled.


If it does turn out to be an allergy, we found that using soft claw caps on hind leg claws can prevent the scratching from causing damage. Occasionally, steroids or anti-biotics can be required. Sometimes we have to resort to a veterinary collar in addition when things are particularly bad. You can also use an anti-flea/anti-mite spray, such as Indorex, which can retain effectiveness when used correctly for up to a year - that's been a big help to us, along with damp dusting.


If fleas have been spotted, then any possible allergy could likely to due to them, but cats can undergo testing to discover which allergens are the culprits. One of my cats even has anti-sensitivity injections - but this is usually only necessary if things get really bad and difficult to control - unlikely if flea bites are the cause.


Don't be afraid to take him back to the vet if things don't clear up or if they worsen.

tallyho88

Very rare in cats but it could possibly be mange.