Bald spot @ base of tail

[Jodi]

Hi guys!!! It's been a long time since I've had a cat-health issue (thank goodness!! ) But I do have a question now...for the past couple of weeks Chessa has been scratching out her hair at the base of her tail and now has a bald spot about the size of a quarter. It appears that it is dry skin related, but when we hold her down and get a good look at it, there are little red bumps on the bald spot. I'm not sure if it is from her scratching, or maybe some kind of rash...

I haven't seen her bother it lately, but the hair is not growing back yet, and I'm concerned it may be more than just dry skin. She's eating fine, playing as usual, etc...I'm planning to take her to the vets but just wanted some opinions on what it may be from the experts here...

Thanks in advance!!!!

[Traci]

Jodi, Chessa is fairly young, isn't she?

I would guess a minor irritation, but other possiblities include flea allergy dermatitis, ear mites, pain response to something not necessarily related to the tail (has she ever had anal gland problems?), or even an insect/mite bite.

The little red bumps you describe sound like irritation, but I'd have your vet look at her to determine for certain and if meds might be warranted.

[Jodi]

Traci,

Chessa is a year and a half. And no, she's never had anal gland problems.

I can't get her into the vet for a few days...is there anything I can do for her in the meantime?

Thanks!!!

[Traci]

If you have vitamin E oil or capsules, you can try dabbing a little on the spot to help soothe the area. Try to stay away from human topicals (may contain toxic ingredients or perfumes etc that could further irritate the area)

[guitarsjb]

My cat Patches had the same problem it sounds like...when I finally got her to the vet, he called it an "irritation" and gave her a cortizone shot. She has been fine ever since. Good luck with yours.