Reader Question: Senior Cat Losing Hair – Possible Causes & What to Do

by Amy
(The Dalles, OR USA)

Why Is My Senior Cat Losing Hair in Bald Spots?

Reader's Question:

Question from Amy:

I have not noticed any fleas on this cat. She is pretty old (estimate 17-18 yrs) We adopted her from some people who were moving about 6 years ago.Previously an outdoor cat who was afraid to come in the house. We moved almost 5 months ago and she has now become an indoor cat, not outside since we moved. She had many matts in her fur from being an outdoor cat for many years. She seems to have adjusted being indoors but recently started losing much hair with balding spots in places.

Possible Causes of Hair Loss in Senior Cats

Amy, thank you for your question. It sounds like your cat has been through a lot of changes in her life, from being an outdoor cat to adjusting to an indoor environment. At 17-18 years old, she is in her senior years, and hair loss in older cats can have several underlying causes. Here are some possibilities:

1. Stress-Related Hair Loss (Psychogenic Alopecia)

• Moving to a new home and transitioning to an indoor-only lifestyle may have caused stress, which can trigger excessive grooming and hair loss.
• Cats sometimes over-groom due to anxiety, boredom, or changes in routine, which can result in bald patches.

2. Hyperthyroidism (Common in Older Cats)

• Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in older cats that can lead to excessive shedding, weight loss, increased appetite, and restlessness.
• A vet can diagnose this with a simple blood test.

3. Skin

Allergies or Dermatitis

• Even though you haven't seen fleas, flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) can still occur if she was exposed before moving indoors.
• Environmental allergies (such as dust mites or household cleaners) could be a factor.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

• Since she previously lived outdoors, her diet may not have been balanced, and she could have lingering nutritional deficiencies.
• Ensuring she is on a high-quality senior cat diet with proper vitamins and omega fatty acids can support skin and coat health.

5. Fungal or Bacterial Infections

• Ringworm (a fungal infection) can cause bald patches, especially in older cats with weakened immune systems.
• Secondary skin infections can also contribute to fur loss.

6. Arthritis or Pain-Related Grooming Issues

• Senior cats with arthritis may have difficulty grooming properly, leading to hair matting, followed by excessive licking and hair loss in certain areas.

What You Should Do Next:

• Schedule a Vet Visit: Since she is a senior cat, it’s best to have a veterinarian examine her for underlying conditions like hyperthyroidism, arthritis, or infections.
• Check for Skin Abnormalities: If there are scabs, redness, or irritation, a skin culture or fungal test might be needed.
• Improve Her Diet: Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to her diet to support coat health.
• Reduce Stress: Using calming pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) can help ease the transition to indoor life.

Since the hair loss appears to be progressing, a vet consultation is highly recommended to determine the exact cause.

All the Best to You and Your Cat,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Cat Health Guide

Please note: This information is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your pet's veterinarian. Always consult a vet for professional medical advice about your pet's health.