Feline Itching | Cat Itching – Complications

Any excessive feline itching can lead to pyoderma, acute moist dermatitis, rashes and lesions. The skin trauma that occurs during heavy bouts of feline itching breaks down the skin’s natural defenses to allow penetration by bacteria.

Pyoderma may take one of the following forms:

• Acute moist dermatitis, which is actually a surface pyoderma brought on by feline itching. The cat owner will notice a moist, red lesion and hair loss at the hot spot. This spot is also extremely itchy.
• Superficial pyodermas, which develop just underneath the skin and are characterized by pustules that eventually rupture. Hair loss may occur when the pustules develop near hair follicles. Superficial pyodermas are actually secondary to other skin problems that may cause excessive feline itching or are themselves caused by a suppressed immune system. Any disease or course of medical treatment that suppresses the immune system may allow bacteria to enter the skin unchecked.
• Deep pyoderma, which is quite rare and much more severe than the other forms of pyoderma. This condition is characterized by serious bacterial infections, fever and open, draining sores. It goes without saying that afflicted cats suffer from suppressed immune systems.

Similarly, it is important to note that lesions from feline itching are often infected with bacteria and require a course of antibiotics to treat the infection.