Feline Shedding – Complications
Excessive itching leads to serious complications beyond feline shedding such as pyoderma, acute moist dermatitis, rashes and lesions. This itching causes trauma that breaks down the skin’s natural defenses and allows penetration by bacteria.
Pyoderma may manifest as:
- Acute moist dermatitis, which is actually a surface pyoderma brought on by feline itching. The cat owner will notice a moist, red lesion and feline shedding at the hot spot. This spot is also extremely itchy.
- Superficial pyodermas that develop just underneath the skin and are characterized by pustules that will eventually rupture. Feline shedding may occur when the pustules develop near hair follicles. Superficial pyodermas are actually secondary to other issues that may cause excessive feline itching and hair loss 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 the lesions that result from feline itching are often infected with bacteria and require a course of antibiotics to treat the infection. Hopefully, the affected cat is not allergic to the antibiotics, which would lead to even further itching and hair loss!
