A common question often asked is why does my Ragdoll cat losing hair and developing bald patches? The answer to this question is not always clear, but there are a few things you can do to help your cat look and feel better.
A cat’s coat is its most important defense against the elements. It helps keep them warm and protects them from the sun’s rays. When a Ragdoll cat loses their hair, it can be a sign of health problems.
What Causes Bald Patches In Cats?
Several health conditions can cause hair loss in cats. Hair loss in cats is often concentrated in one area and differs from natural shedding. Here are some common factors that can cause bald patches in Ragdoll cats.
Flea Allergy
The most common cause of hair loss in cats is a flea allergy. If your Ragdoll cat is allergic to flea saliva, a flea infestation can cause patches of baldness. The hair loss can be made worse if the pet scratches the bites.
Enivronmental Allergies
Some environmental allergies can cause hair loss in cats, as well as other allergic reactions. These can come from things like chemicals in the cat’s environment – such as paint fumes and cleaning products, dust and pollen, metals such as mercury and nickel, medications, and other substances.
Folliculitis
Hair loss in cats can be caused by an infection of the hair follicles, known as Folliculitis. After a veterinarian diagnoses the infection, it is usually treated with antibiotics. Cat hair loss can also be a symptom of other infections.
Ringworm
Cat hair loss can be caused by ringworm which is a fungal infection. If your Ragdoll cat develops a ringworm infection, their hair will usually fall out around the infected area. This will leave either a completely bald area of skin or a distinctly thinner covering of hair.
There are medications and dips that treat ringworm.
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid problems such as Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause bald patches and hair loss. The hair may easily pull out which can cause hair loss when the cat grooms itself or is brushed. Some other symptoms of hypothyroidism may include sudden and extreme weight loss or weight gain, increased thirst, or a change in behavior such as hyperactivity or underactivity.
Stress and Anxiety
Some cats develop a nervous habit of excessive grooming in reaction to stress. This excessive cat grooming can cause cat hair loss. Patches commonly affected by this kind of behaviour include the stomach and the tail. If you find that your Ragdoll is over grooming you can try using a feline pheromone diffuser or spray, like Feliway, which will help put your cat at ease.
A drug-free solution that helps reduce signs of stress in cats, including scratching and urine spraying.
Makes vet visits, travel, new environments less stressful for your cat.
Mimics a mother cat's natural pheromones to promote a sense of calm.
Sunburn
Hair loss in cats can be caused by sunburn. White cats are susceptible to sunburn on their ears. The ears can be protected with suntan lotion.
Pregnancy and Nursing
Pregnancy and nursing can cause a female cat to have hair loss. Hair loss from pregnancy is sometimes called blowing her coat.
Scent Glands
Some people mistakenly believe that cats with thinner fur on their foreheads have lost hair, when in reality this is simply due to the presence of scent glands on the forehead. I personally have noticed this with my Ragdoll Cat.
Diet
A lack of certain nutrients can lead to hair loss in cats. For example, a cat who eats a diet low in protein may experience hair loss on their head and around their eyes
What Are Some Natural Remedies For Bald Patches In Cats?
There are many remedies for bald patches in cats, but the most common is to use a topical cream or lotion as prescribed by your veterinarian. Some other natural remedies include feeding your cat food that has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, and giving them plenty of water.
If you see your Ragdoll cat losing hair, don’t panic. There are many things that can cause bald patches in cats. Talk to your veterinarian to see if there is anything they can do to help.
