Hi Dr Carol, I adopted a tortie about 6 months ago from the local humane society. She is about 3 yrs old, fixed, and up to date with her shots. She is declawed in the front, and is always indoors. I have no history on her prior to the pound. (she was fixed and claws done before I got her). Anyway, have been spending money trying to figure out a hair issue with her. She was missing hair on her lower abdomen when I got her, as well as in some spots on her legs. It does not appear to be acne, no spots or sores. Ringworm has been ruled out, as well as mites, etc. On her last trip to the vet, they gave her a steroid shot, as well as put her on antibiotics for 10 days. I thought that was doing the trick, as I was actually seeing tufts of hair growing back in the hair loss areas.
Now I notice new balding spots on her. She does not appear to be over washing, or neurotic or anything like that. (I am home all day). I am at a loss as to what to do now. I just want to help her out here, and cannot afford to hand the vets a couple of hundred dollars every month for them to guess. She is a very well tempered kitty, and I absolutely love her, she has adapted well. Any suggestions as to what I should do next? Your help would be most appreciated.
Thanks
Susan and Lilly Cat
PS: There are no other animals in the home
Hi Susan,
I am glad to talk to you and help. You might want to see a board certified veterinary dermatologist. How were the mites ruled out? They burrow very deep into the skin and skin scraings are often negative despite their presence. A skin biopsy would give you a definative diagnosis as to the underlying cause.
Revolution is a topical flea product however it can be given in a certain topical regime whereby it effectively and safely kills mites and many other skin parasites. You might mention this to your vet and give it a try. This could solve the problem and save you alot of cost and time.
A good natural diet and a supplement like PAAWS wuld also help to boost internal immunity and improve overall health and wellness.
I am available at the toll free number below.
Thank you,
Dr Carol Osborne, DVM