Inflammatory Skin Conditions in Cats: Welfare Guide
Common Feline Inflammatory Skin Conditions
Cats experience a range of inflammatory skin conditions: feline atopic skin syndrome (FASS), food-responsive dermatitis, flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC), and psychogenic alopecia. Each has distinct causes and presentations. Many present with a common set of reactions: self-induced alopecia, miliary dermatitis (multiple small crusts), eosinophilic plaques/granulomas, and head/neck excoriations.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
FAD is the most common cause of pruritus in cats. A single flea bite causes intense allergic reaction in sensitised cats. Affected cats develop self-induced alopecia (usually flanks, abdomen, inner thighs), miliary dermatitis, and excoriations. Flea control is essential: all in-contact animals must be treated with veterinarian-recommended products; the environment must be treated to kill flea eggs and larvae. Many cats with apparent FAD have no obvious fleas visible.
Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex
EGC comprises three reaction patterns sharing eosinophilic inflammation: indolent ulcer (upper lip), eosinophilic plaque (ventral abdomen/inner thighs), and linear granuloma (lip, chin, caudal thigh). All cause discomfort or pain; plaques are intensely pruritic. EGC is usually a hypersensitivity reaction (FAD, food, atopy). Treatment involves identifying and treating the underlying trigger plus immunosuppression (prednisolone, ciclosporin) for refractory cases.
Diagnosis
Thorough history taking (onset, diet, seasonality, response to previous treatments), clinical examination, skin cytology, skin scrape, intradermal testing, and dietary elimination trial (strict novel protein or hydrolysed protein diet for 8-12 weeks) characterise most feline dermatological conditions. Skin biopsies may be needed for persistent unusual presentations. Ruling out ectoparasites (Cheyletiella, Demodex, Notoedres) and dermatophytosis is important.
Treatment and Welfare Management
Treatment targets the underlying cause wherever possible: strict flea control, dietary management, allergen avoidance. Immunosuppressive therapy (prednisolone, ciclosporin/Atopica, oclacitinib, lokivetmab) manages symptoms when triggers cannot be eliminated. Allergen-specific immunotherapy is available for atopic cats. Regular monitoring of pruritus score, skin condition, and body weight guides treatment adjustment. Chronic skin disease causes ongoing welfare compromise; treatment should aim for the maximum reduction in pruritus achievable.