8 common skin conditions in cats with pictures: if you see one, see a vet immediately!

In cats, the more serious skin conditions are a little harder for the average person to identify. So it's always a good idea to see a vet immediately if they have any lesions, as you can never be sure that they are not malignant and so need immediate treatment.

There are usually clear signs of skin problems, as not only are there lesions visible to the naked eye but there are also usually compulsive behaviours such as scratching, changes in behaviour and restlessness, and changes in their grooming habits. The latter may be increased self-care, but may also be reduced.

It’s important to know that many skin conditions cause similar symptoms, which is why it is essential to have them diagnosed by a vet. In such cases, the following tests should be expected: a thorough medical history, physical examination, skin scraping, cytology if necessary, and biopsy for histopathology. Blood tests are now usually also needed to check whether there is an underlying disease.

Below we have collected, with pictures, the most common skin diseases that can occur in cats.

1. Acne

Despite the fact that in principle the appearance of a pimple is not dangerous at all, many people are suddenly frightened by even such a small difference. This usually appears around the cat’s chin and may be due to, excessive stress, inappropriate grooming behaviour, or even an allergy, an exaggerated reaction to medication, or an underlying skin condition.

However, it’s important to know that it’s not always only acne-like in appearance, as it’s often more likely to be accompanied by severe redness, thinning hair and small bumps. In many cases, this will go away on its own, but if it does not, or if it gets worse, it is always best to see a vet. The doctor will usually use a special gel to remove it, or if there is a bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment may be necessary.

2. Bacterial infection

This condition is usually caused by bacteria already present on the skin, which overgrow due to predisposing factors. Triggers can include a weakened immune system, parasitic infection, allergies or pre-existing wounds. For example, cat acne can make the cat’s hair follicles more vulnerable to infection, which can lead to folliculitis in the long term. It is usually characterised by increased dandruff, scaling, and pustular, exudative blisters, with symptoms in hairless areas. But damp, warm skin areas such as the mouth or even around the genitals are more prone to developing them. Bacterial infections can be cured with antibiotics, but it is important to treat underlying skin conditions to prevent recurrence.

3. Fungal infection

Fungal infections are most likely to affect cats with some underlying health problems. One of the most common signs is an infection of the ear. The reason for this is that cats’ ears have a minimal number of yeasts, which will multiply if the healthy flora of the ear is disrupted. However, there is always a triggering factor, such as the appearance of wounds, competing infections or immunosuppression. Symptoms may include black or yellow discharge, redness of the ear lobe and persistent scratching of the ear. These infections respond reasonably well to treatment with antifungal drugs, but it is always worth seeking a diagnosis from a vet so that treatment can be started appropriately.

Sporotrichosis

Sporotrichosis is also a fungal disease, but its occurrence is extremely rare. It usually causes small, hard skin lesions that may leak fluid. However, it is of utmost importance that sporotrichosis is a public health concern, as the fungus can spread from cats to humans, and in their case, humans with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. For these reasons, cats with sporotrichosis should be treated immediately, but fortunately, it is a very rare disease.

Dermatophytosis (ringworm)

Dermatophytosis is a fungal which mainly affects cats under 1 year of age. This usually appears as a circular lesion on the cat’s head, possibly ears or limbs. The skin around these lesions often has scaly and bald patches. It’s important to know that the ringworm is highly contagious and can easily spread to other pets as well as humans. Treatment usually depends on the severity of the condition, but medicines and ointments are usually used to reduce it.

4. Allergic dermatitis

It’s important to know that cats can have allergic reactions to cleaning products, food and irritants found virtually anywhere in the environment, such as pollen or flea bites. For example, scratching the head or neck is one of the most common signs of a food allergy. Other symptoms of allergies include chewing at the paws or the base of the tail, or scratching the ears. Furthermore, these allergies can cause hair or skin lesions on any part of the body, including the abdomen. The best solution in this case is to avoid allergenic substances.

5. Hair loss

Chronic shedding of cat hair can also indicate various skin conditions. In particular, if the animal is losing much more hair than usual, or if they have bald patches, it is advisable to visit the vet as soon as possible. This is usually a sign of some kind of illness, perhaps itching from fleas, or stress or allergies.

6. Eosinophilic granuloma

If your cat has ulcers or lesions on the nose or in the mouth, it is usually due to a type of allergic reaction called eosinophilic granuloma. It can occur on any part of the body but is mainly seen on the face, paw pads and thighs, which are caused by food allergies and fleas but can also be caused by bacterial infections.

7. Skin tumours

Usually, tumours on the cat’s skin indicate that there is some kind of abnormality on the animal’s body. It is important to know that older cats are particularly prone to developing skin cancer. A biopsy is needed to determine whether the tumour is benign or malignant. Further treatment will be decided by the vet. It is important to see a vet as soon as possible if you see tissue growths, as every day is precious in the case of a malignant tumour, which means treatment can start sooner.

8. Dry, peeling skin

Like humans, some cats’ skin becomes dry and scaly in winter. Usually, there is nothing serious behind this, but it may be worth visiting the vet to be on the safe side. It can be caused by persistent dandruff, poor nutrition, inadequate care or even an underlying health problem.

The article was proofread by Dr. Lilla Balatonyi, veterinarian.