Here is Why Your Cat’s Fur Is Falling Out Near Its Hind Legs

While fshedding is a natural process, it can be concerning if your cat is losing a significant amount of fur near its hind legs.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common problem in cats and can be caused by a variety of reasons. What they have in common is that they usually require intervention. Read our article to find out what the options are. Shedding in a cat can occur in these cases.

Why Shedding in a Cat Might Be Abnormal

Hair loss usually results from itching, which causes cats to over-groom or excessively lick the affected area. Itching itself is just a symptom, so addressing it requires investigating the underlying cause. Here are the most common causes:

1.) Fleas and Other Parasites

Hair loss near the hind legs is often due to fleas. Flea bites can cause allergies or flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), leading to persistent itching and hair loss, sometimes resulting in open sores or scabs that may invite bacterial infections.

Flea-related hair loss often appears around the neck, legs, and base of the tail and may be accompanied by crusty sores. Regular flea prevention is crucial, as both indoor and outdoor cats are susceptible to fleas.

Other parasites, like mites and ringworm, can also cause itching and hair loss, though fleas are the usual culprits.

2.) Pain

Cats may over-groom to the point of hair loss when experiencing pain, often related to urinary issues or arthritis. Recognizing pain in cats can be challenging, so being aware of key signs and consulting a vet is essential.

3.) Allergies

Besides fleas, certain foods or environmental factors can cause allergic reactions that lead to itching and hair loss. Identifying and removing the allergen source is the first step in treatment.

Food allergies are often linked to specific protein types. Hydrolyzed protein diets are available, breaking proteins into small components that prevent the immune system from recognizing them as allergens. Avoiding overly dry foods may also help ease certain allergic symptoms.

4.) Stress and Anxiety

Cats are meticulous groomers, spending 30-50% of their day grooming. However, if this results in fur loss or skin injuries, an underlying health or psychological issue may be present.

Over-grooming is a way cats self-soothe during stressful situations or anxiety, but it can become compulsive. Cats may lick their bellies, thighs, or lower back in response to stressors such as moving, new household members, tension with other pets, or boredom.

Compulsive grooming typically doesn’t cause inflammation but can lead to infections and irritation. Reducing stress, maintaining a stable routine, providing mental and physical stimulation, and creating a calm environment can help. Playing with your cat and providing hiding spots may also be beneficial.

“In addition to the above causes, eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC) frequently appears along the thighs or elbow folds, initially showing as hair loss and later forming granulomas. This condition is usually triggered by flea allergy, food allergy, or environmental factors,” said Dr. Andrea Bodó, veterinarian.