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Wednesday, 15 August 2007

A reader has contacted Pet Peeves about her cat, who is going bald on her hind legs.

Hair loss can occur for different reasons, from poor nutrition, fungal infections, autoimmune disease or allergies to parasites. Look at the skin condition. Is it red, itchy, crusty, inflamed or scabby? You should seek your vet’s advice immediately.

Baldness does not happen in animals, unless it is an animal that has no hair or fur, i.e. a Chinese crested dog or a Sphinx cat or a Devin Rex, which may loose its hair. Even if no symptoms appear, it is advisable to get it checked, as it could be ringworm or an hormonal imbalance. If the pet in question is a cat, it could be suffering from baldness as a result of over-grooming, which cats can do if they are stressed.

Parasites such as fleas or mites may also cause your pet to have an allergy, which can also result in baldness or a red angry patch.

A reader has also contacted us regarding ringworm.

Ringworm is a skin condition caused by a fungus - not a worm, as suggested. It is usually in the shape of a ring. While humans can pick it up, this does not always follow. As with all fungal infections, some get it, others don't.

The symptoms that appear can be the ring shape. There may also be hair loss or itching. A quick trip to your vet and a quick look with a woods lamp will tell you if your pet has it. Their are plenty of medicines to cure ring worm but, if you favour alternative medicine, check if your vet practice has a vet practicing homeopathy. The cure usually includes special baths, medicine and creams.

Next week we will look at the signs of fever and what to watch out for in your pet.

Please make sure your pets are up to date with flea and worm treatments and that your dog is not left out unattended. Dogs should also have ID collars.

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