All cats shed, but bald patches, thinning fur, or bare skin where there used to be a healthy coat are a different story. Hair loss (alopecia) is a symptom, not a diagnosis — it's your cat's skin telling you that something is itchy, painful, stressful or out of balance. The good news is that most causes are identifiable and treatable. Here's how to tell shedding from real hair loss, the usual culprits, and when it's time to call the vet.
Shedding or hair loss?
Normal shedding thins the coat evenly and the fur underneath still looks glossy and dense. Hair loss leaves visible skin, patchy bald spots, or fur that comes out in clumps — commonly on the belly, inner thighs, back legs or flanks. If you can see skin, or the area looks red, scabby or inflamed, you're dealing with hair loss and it's worth investigating.
Common causes of hair loss in cats
1. Fleas and flea allergy
The most common cause. Cats allergic to flea saliva overgroom, especially along the back and tail base, pulling out fur as they go — often without you ever seeing a flea.
2. Overgrooming from stress
Anxiety, boredom or a change in the home (a move, a new pet, a new baby) can lead to compulsive licking that wears the fur down, classically into a symmetrical strip on the belly.
3. Allergies
Food and environmental allergies make the skin itchy, driving the licking and scratching that removes fur.
4. Ringworm
Despite the name, this is a fungal infection that causes round, crusty, scaly bald patches. It's contagious to other pets and to people.
5. Mites and mange
Ear mites and skin mites cause intense itching, scabbing and localised hair loss, often around the head, ears and neck.
6. Hyperthyroidism and hormonal issues
In older cats, an overactive thyroid can cause a poor, thinning coat alongside weight loss and increased appetite. Other hormonal imbalances affect coat quality too.
7. Pain
Cats often overgroom directly over a painful spot — such as an arthritic hip or a sore bladder — leaving a bald patch that maps onto the problem underneath.
Red flags: when to worry
See a vet promptly if hair loss comes with any of these:
- Bald areas that are spreading or growing
- Skin that is red, crusty, scabby, thickened or smelly
- Round, scaly patches (possible ringworm — contagious to humans)
- Constant scratching, licking or overgrooming
- Weight loss, increased thirst, or a change in appetite or behaviour
- Sores your cat keeps reopening
How to help at home
- Keep flea prevention current year-round, since fleas are the leading cause even when you can't see them.
- Brush regularly. Gentle grooming with a soft cat brush removes loose fur, spreads skin oils, and lets you spot bald patches early.
- Reduce stress. Add vertical space, hiding spots, play sessions and routine; calming aids can help anxious groomers.
- Support the coat from within with a complete diet and, if your vet agrees, an omega-3 supplement.
- Photograph the patches each week so you and your vet can see whether they're improving or spreading.
Regular gentle grooming keeps the coat healthy and helps you catch problems early. A soft cat brush or grooming glove removes loose fur without irritating sensitive skin.
Shop grooming essentials →Which cats are most affected?
Long-haired breeds mat and overgroom more easily, and highly sensitive or anxious cats are prone to stress grooming. Older cats face thyroid and arthritis-related hair loss, while outdoor cats pick up fleas and ringworm more often. Whatever the breed, a calm environment, steady routine and consistent parasite control give the coat its best chance to stay full and healthy.
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Download the MyFurtopia AppFrequently asked questions
Is my cat losing hair or just shedding?
Normal shedding thins the coat evenly and leaves it looking healthy. True hair loss creates thin spots or bald patches where you can see skin, often on the belly, inner legs or back legs. If you can see the skin, the fur is coming out in clumps, or the skin looks red or scabby, it is hair loss rather than ordinary shedding.
Why is my cat overgrooming and losing hair on its belly?
A symmetrical bald strip on the belly or inner back legs is the classic sign of overgrooming, and the underlying cause is usually itch or stress. Fleas, food or environmental allergies, pain, and anxiety all make cats lick a spot until the fur is gone. A vet can rule out allergies and parasites before treating it as a behavioural issue.
When should I take my cat to the vet for hair loss?
Book a vet visit if the bald areas are spreading, the skin is red, crusty, scabby or smelly, your cat is scratching or overgrooming constantly, or hair loss comes with weight loss, increased thirst or a change in behaviour. Round, crusty patches can be ringworm, which is contagious to people, so prompt diagnosis matters.
This guide is educational and not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If your cat's hair loss is spreading or the skin looks inflamed, contact your vet.