8 Causes of Hair Fall in Cats (And When to Worry)

 Is your cat shedding more than usual?

Hair fall in cats is common—but it can be totally normal or a sign of an underlying issue.

As a veterinarian, I always advise cat owners to look at the pattern, duration, and associated symptoms of the shedding before jumping to conclusions.

Here are the most common causes of feline hair loss—and when it’s time to call your vet.

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🐾 1. Normal Seasonal Shedding

Cats naturally shed more during spring and fall.
✔️ If your cat is otherwise healthy and the hair is evenly thinning, this is usually no concern.

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🐾 2. Fleas or Parasites

Flea bites can cause intense itching → excessive scratching → hair loss
Look for flea dirt, red bumps, or overgrooming around the tail and belly.

Tip: Even indoor cats can get fleas—check regularly!

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🐾 3. Allergies (Food or Environmental)

Cats may be allergic to certain foods, pollen, dust, or even cleaning products.
Symptoms: itching, redness, chewing paws, ear infections, and… hair fall.

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🐾 4. Stress or Anxiety (Psychogenic Alopecia)

Some cats overgroom when stressed—this leads to hair loss on belly, sides, or legs.
Triggers include:

• New pets

• Moving house

• Change in routine

Vet Note: This is often misdiagnosed. Behavior + location of hair loss matters!

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🐾 5. Fungal Infections (Ringworm)

Ringworm is not a worm—it’s a contagious fungus.
Signs:

• Round, bald patches

• Scaly skin

• Can spread to humans!

Diagnosis is confirmed by fungal culture or Wood’s lamp.

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🐾 6. Hormonal Imbalances

Issues with thyroid, adrenal glands, or reproductive hormones can cause symmetrical hair loss.
You’ll usually see:

• No itching

• Bilateral thinning

• Lethargy or weight changes

Vet bloodwork is essential here.

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🐾 7. Nutritional Deficiencies

Poor diet = poor coat
Low-quality food or imbalanced homemade diets can lead to dry fur and shedding.

Look for: dull coat, dandruff, weakness

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🐾 8. Skin Conditions (Mites, Dermatitis)

Skin inflammation from mange, mites, or autoimmune disease can cause raw patches and hair loss.
You might see:

• Scabs, sores

• Pain on touch

• Hair falling in clumps

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🩺 When Should You See a Vet?

Seek veterinary help if your cat has:

• Bald patches

• Skin wounds or scabs

• Excessive licking or scratching

• Loss of appetite or behavior changes

• Hair falling in chunks or fast

Early diagnosis = easier treatment = happier cat.

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✅ Vet’s Final Advice:

Hair loss isn’t always dangerous—but it’s never random.

Watch your cat’s behavior, look at the skin, and always consult your vet if unsure.
Your cat’s coat reflects its health. Take it seriously.