1. Observation of the Cat's Behavior
- Scratching Frequency and Location
If your cat is constantly scratching a particular area, like the ears, it could be a sign of ear mites or an ear infection. For example, if you notice your cat scratching its ears vigorously and shaking its head often, ear mites are a likely suspect.
Scratching around the neck and base of the tail might indicate fleas, as these areas are common hiding places for fleas.
- Time of Day or Seasonal Patterns
Some cats may itch more at certain times of the day. For instance, if your cat itches more at night, it could be due to the activity of certain parasites, like fleas that are more active in the dark.
Seasonal itching can be related to environmental allergies. If your cat itches more during spring or fall, pollen or mold allergies might be the cause.
2. Examination of the Cat's Skin and Fur
- Flea Dirt and Fleas
Part the fur on your cat's back, around the base of the tail, and on the belly. Look for small black specks, which could be flea dirt (flea feces). If you see these, it's likely your cat has fleas. You can also try to spot the actual fleas, which are small, dark, and move quickly.
Related: Flea in Cats: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
- Skin Lesions and Rashes
Check for any redness, bumps, or patches of hair loss on the skin. Circular patches of hair loss could be a sign of ringworm, a fungal infection. Red, inflamed areas might indicate a bacterial skin infection or an allergic reaction.
- Dry or Flaky Skin
If the skin is dry and flaky, it could be due to a lack of proper nutrition, such as a deficiency in essential fatty acids. It could also be a sign of an underlying skin condition like seborrhea.
Also Read: How to Treat Dry Skin in Cats
3. Consideration of the Cat's Diet
- Recent Dietary Changes
If you've recently changed your cat's food, it could be the cause of itching. New ingredients might be causing an allergic reaction. For example, a switch from a chicken - based food to a fish - based food could trigger an allergy in some cats.
- Type of Diet
A diet high in grains or low - quality proteins may not be suitable for some cats and could lead to skin problems. Cats are obligate carnivores, so a diet lacking in high - quality animal protein might cause itching or other skin issues.
4. Evaluation of the Cat's Environment
- Exposure to Allergens
If there are new plants, cleaning products, or fabrics in the cat's environment, it could be causing an allergic reaction. For example, a new type of cat litter or a new laundry detergent used on the cat's bedding might be the culprit.
- Contact with Other Animals
If your cat has been in contact with other animals, it could have picked up parasites or an infectious disease. For instance, playing with a neighbor's cat that has fleas could lead to your cat getting fleas as well.
