Hair loss is a common symptom in cats. It can affect cats of any age or breed and has many possible causes, including normal seasonal shedding, parasites, allergies, stress or an underlying health problem.

Cats suffer excessive hair loss if something interferes with their normal hair growth and shedding cycles. This can lead to a thinning coat, bald patches or changes in the quality and feel of their coat. Some cats lose hair because they overgroom in response to stress or discomfort. Other cats may lose hair due to skin disease or chronic illness.

Recognising changes in your cat’s coat early and getting prompt veterinary advice will help to improve chances of a full recovery and prevent ongoing skin irritation or longer-term complications.

What to do if your cat is losing hair

If you think your cat is losing hair more than usual, start by checking their overall health and behaviour.

• Have you noticed them grooming themselves more than normal or pulling and biting their hair out?

• Can you see any bald patches, thinning fur or broken hairs?

• Is their skin red, sore, flaky or greasy?

• Are they scratching, licking or biting at any areas in particular?

• Has your cat’s diet, routine or environment changed at all recently?

• Is their parasite preventive treatment up to date?

• Have you noticed any changes in your cat’s appetite, drinking habits, weight or behaviour?

Hair loss in cats can get worse quickly, especially if it’s caused by infection or irritation. Talk to a vet if you’re unsure. It’s always safest to get trustworthy advice.

Common causes of hair loss in cats

There are a large number of possible causes for hair loss in cats, including:

• Parasites: fleas, mites or lice

• Allergies: a food allergy or environmental allergy (atopy)

• Skin infections: due to bacteria or fungi (such as ringworm)

• Overgrooming: often triggered by stress, anxiety or pain

• Hormonal conditions: such as hyperthyroidism

• Poor nutrition: an unbalanced or poor-quality diet

• Chronic illness: kidney disease, diabetes or other systemic illnesses

• Genetics: some breeds are vulnerable to hair loss; others are naturally hairless (Sphynx, Bambino, Elf)

When to worry about hair loss in cats

Speak to a vet if your cat develops any of the following:

• Bald patches or an obviously thinning coat

• Areas of red, inflamed or broken skin

• Persistent scratching or overgrooming

• Changes in their appetite, weight or energy levels

Cats losing hair because of an illness or infection usually need to be treated by a vet. The sooner they can receive this, the better the chance of a full recovery.

Joii vets are available online 24/7 if you need advice or reassurance at any time.

Schedule a prompt in-person appointment if:

• Your cat’s hair loss is spreading quickly

• Your cat seems to be uncomfortable or distressed

• Their skin looks sore, infected or swollen

• Symptoms aren’t improving with simple home care

• Your cat has other underlying health problems

• Hair loss is affecting other pets or people (cases like ringworm)

Tips to help prevent hair loss in cats

It’s not possible to prevent all causes of hair loss in cats. But there are a few measures that will help your cat have a healthy coat and skin:

• Feed them a balanced, good-quality diet appropriate for their age, general health and lifestyle.

• Keep parasite preventive treatments up to date.

• Groom your cat regularly: it helps remove loose hair and aids early detection of problems.

• Avoid over-bathing or using unsuitable shampoos for your cat.

• Minimise stress by keeping your cat’s routine regular and enriching their environment for mental and physical stimulation.

• Monitor carefully for any early signs of skin or coat changes.

Still have questions about hair loss in cats?

Our Joii Vets can help if:

• You’re unsure whether your cat’s shedding is normal

• You need advice on grooming or coat care

• You’d like help with choosing parasite preventive care

• You’re looking for guidance on diet or supplements

• Symptoms are mild or have just started

Warning signs of excessive hair loss in cats

You might notice:

• Clumps of fur lying around your house

• Bald patches on your cat or a patchy, uneven coat

• A dull, dry or greasy coat

• Flaky or scaly skin

• Your cat is grooming, licking or chewing themselves excessively

• More frequent hairballs

Speak to a vet as soon as possible if you notice these signs. 

How to treat hair loss in cats at home

If your cat is otherwise well and comfortable, mild cases can sometimes be managed at home.

• Brush your cat regularly to remove loose and dead hair

• Use gentle, cat-specific grooming products

• Don’t bathe your cat unless advised by a vet

• Keep up-to-date with appropriate parasite treatments

• Feed your cat a balanced, healthy diet and keep them fit and slim

• Consider omega-3 and 6 supplements: talk to a vet for advice

• Reduce stress by keeping your cat's environment and routines stable

• Keep your cat’s bedding and living areas clean

Seek help from a vet if your cat’s symptoms don’t improve or if they start to get any worse. 

Veterinary treatments for hair loss in cats

Cats with persistent or severe hair loss will need to be assessed and treated by a vet.

Your vet may advise further tests to investigate the underlying cause:

• Skin scrapes or hair analysis

• Fungal cultures (for ringworm)

• Blood and urine tests

• Allergy investigations

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Prescription parasite treatments

• Antibiotics or antifungal medication

• Anti-itch or anti-inflammatory drugs

• Hormone treatments

• A special (prescription) diet or supplement

Are some cats more at risk of hair loss?

Any cat can develop hair loss, but higher-risk groups include:

• Cats with allergies or sensitive skin

• Indoor cats: tend to shed constantly, risk of close exposure to allergens

• Older cats: more risk of an underlying illness

• Long-haired breeds: Persian, Maine Coon, British Longhair, Ragdoll

• Cats who are stressed or have behavioural issues

• Cats who don't receive regular parasite prevention, especially outdoor cats and hunters

• Breeds with double coats: Maine Coon, Persian, British Shorthair, Russian Blue

• Breeds with sparse, thin coats: Devon Rex, Cornish Rex

Other causes of hair loss in cats

If symptoms persist, less common causes of hair loss in cats may include:

• Autoimmune disease

• Pregnancy-related changes in their coat

• Side effects of medication

• Chemical irritation or burns

• Sunburn: especially in light-coloured cats

• Pinnal (ear) alopecia: Siamese cats

• Hereditary hypotrichosis: Birman, Burmese

• Cancer