Skin diseases are very common in cats. They can occur because of bacterial, viral, fungal, allergic, parasitic, and hormonal disorders. In older cats, skin cancer and cysts are not uncommon. Signs of skin problems are among the easiest to detect. They include dry flaky skin, as well as red, raw irritated areas often with hair loss and small scabs. Skin diseases often cause similar signs which can make exact diagnoses difficult. Unfortunately many cases are chronic and cannot be cured but can be controlled. These cats generally require long-term therapy which is frustrating and costly. Nutrition, bathing, and grooming provide symptomatic relief in almost all cases.
