Scabs On Cats: 4 Types (with Pictures) & How To Treat - Cat-World

At my veterinary practice, I often see cats with patchy areas of fur and scabs on their skin. It’s a common problem. By examining the affected kitty, I can diagnose and treat the condition based on the scabs’ number, distribution, appearance, and size.

Patchy areas of fur and scabs can be caused by allergies, ringworm, fleas, acne, and ear edge dermatitis, among other things. In this article, I’ll explain top causes and what to do to help your cat.

Scabs that require veterinary treatments

When you notice scabs on your cat, it’s always wise to contact your veterinarian. Some types of scabs on a cat can cause concern as they may indicate underlying issues that require veterinary attention. Signs to be on the watch for include:

• Red, inflamed or bleeding scabs.
• Scabs that smell bad or are discharging. This can indicate an abscess, which can occur after a cat bite, for example.
• Multiple scabs, which could be a sign of a more widespread issue like an allergy, flea infestation, or an autoimmune disorder.
• Scabs that don’t heal within 1-2 weeks (this could indicate an underlying problem, such as a chronic skin condition or infection).
• Scabs with hair loss.
• Restlessness, irritability or excessive grooming. If your cat is excessively scratching, grooming, or showing signs of discomfort along with the scabs, it could be a sign of pain or irritation.
• Loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Breathing issues from scabs around the nose.

5 common types of scabs on cats (with pictures) – and what to do

1. Flea allergy dermatitis

What it is: Flea allergy dermatitis, caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva, is the most common cause of scabs in cats. There are multiple, small, crusty scabs along the rump, back, neck, or head. The area can be inflamed and itchy, which prompts cats to scratch excessively, causing micro abrasions on the skin and leading to secondary infections.

The first thing an owner usually notices is that their cat is scratching and licking their rump more. When they investigate, they may notice the fur is thin, and when they stroke their cat, they may feel some tiny scabs.

Pictures of flea allergy scabs on cats:

What to do about it: The best treatment for flea allergy dermatitis starts with eliminating the fleas. Treat your kitty, any other pets, and the environment, as the parasites can spend 90% of their lives off of your cat. There area a range of effective flea treatments including topical spot-ons, tablets and collars. Consult your vet to determine the best choice for you furry friend.

Additionally, you may provide symptomatic relief of itchiness and inflammation with:

• Omega fatty acid supplements
• Oatmeal or anti-itch shampoo
• Antihistamines
• Corticosteroids

Learn more about flea allergy dermatitis.

2. Food allergies

What it is: Food allergies often present before the age of three. They cause the skin to be inflamed in places including the face, chest, paws and anus. Kitties with this condition may present with:

• Crusty skin
• Thinning hair
• Non-seasonal itching
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Flatulence and bloating
• A red anus

Repeated rubbing and scratching can cause scabbing, particularly around the head, face, neck, and ears.

Unlike with a flea allergy, the rump is not usually the itchiest place.

What to do about it: If your veterinarian diagnoses food allergies, switch your pet to a hypoallergenic diet. Look for foods that feature limited ingredients and a novel protein such as duck. Alternatively, choose a completely hydrolyzed diet. Your kitty’s doctor may also prescribe corticosteroids to ease itching, and antibiotics or a medicated wash to treat any concurrent skin infections.

Learn more about food allergies or food elimination diets.

3. Scabs from ringworm

What it is: Ringworm is an infectious fungal infection, that is most often encountered in kittens. It begins as a circular, reddened rash and can include patchy hair loss and scaly skin. The circular lesions can affect any part of the body. Many kitties only have one singular lesion, but many can develop.

Due to the infectious nature, ringworm is more prevalent in high-density environments like shelters or catteries.

Note: It is a zoonotic, which means it can pass to people. It is prudent to check the skin of everyone in the home, if it is suspected your cat has Ringworm. Should anyone have a lesion (usually a red ring), they should see their doctor for treatment.

What to do about it: There are topical creams and sprays available to treat ringworm lesions. Your veterinarian may recommend clipping back your cat’s hair and treating with a medicated shampoo or dip. There are also oral antifungal medications for generalized infections, but as these cause side effects, they are limited to the more severe cases. To prevent reinfection, you’ll also need to treat the environment. Wash all bedding in hot water and hang it in the sun to dry. Wipe all surfaces with a 10% bleach solution.

Learn more about ringworm in cats.

4. Scabs from feline acne

What it is: Feline acne is characterized by blackheads in the chin area that may transition to pustules or pimples. As the area becomes inflamed, kitties itch, and their scratching can cause the pustules to erupt. You may notice a greasy crust under the skin. It may be triggered by food allergies, plastic bowls, infections, or a host of other factors.

Owners can determine that their cat has acne, because only the chin will be affected. While it can affect any age, teenage cats are usually the ones who develop it. The fur can feel greasy and may appear dark and discolored.

What to do about it: To treat feline acne, clean the affected area twice a day with diluted Chlorhexidine. You can switch to stainless steel, ceramic or glass bowls. If the condition persists or your kitty seems uncomfortable, talk to your veterinarian about a medical cleanser and topical antibiotics.

5. Ear edge dermatitis scabs

What it is: Because feline ears often have less hair than other parts of the body, they’re susceptible to a variety of conditions that can cause scabs. These include allergies, immune-mediated disorders, sunburn, and skin parasites. When this happens, you can see scabs, crusting, and hair loss.

Mange is a very common cause of scabs on the ears, and you’ll notice that your kitty is intensely itchy. As well as red and sore skin which may bleed, you’ll see thick crusts forming.

What to do about it: Your treatment approach will depend on the underlying cause. Scabs caused by parasites call for anti-parasitic medications. If the scabs result from immune-mediated issues, your kitty will need immunosuppressive therapy. For sunburn, avoid sun exposure and use topical ointments to help the sores heal and sun screen to prevent them in the first place.

Learn more about ear scabs in cats.

Scabs from small superficial wounds should heal in 1-2 weeks

Feline injuries from a scratch, nip, or tree branch may leave a superficial injury that scabs over. If you notice a singular scab or a chain of scabs in a line that isn’t oozing pus and seems superficial, it shouldn’t be a concern. A scab on a cat from a small injury typically takes about 1 to 3 weeks to heal, depending on the severity of the wound, the cat’s overall health, and how well the area is cared for (small superficial wounds should heal in 1-2 weeks).

A deeper wound, or a puncture, indicates a bite and does require vet treatment.

4 steps you can take to help your cat

If your cat has mild scabs, there are some things you can do to help relieve itching or protect the scabbed area while you’re waiting to see your veterinarian.

1. A medicated wash

You can use salt water or dilute Chlorhexidine to gently bathe the affected area, clearing away dirt as well as yeast and bacteria from the surface of the skin. Be sure your kitty cannot lick the wash off, which may mean using an Elizabethan collar.

2. Use a cone

A cone, or Elizabethan collar, may be used for extreme itchiness from an allergy or other skin condition. The collar will prevent biting or scratching that can cause further injury to the scabbed skin. Remember, cats dislike these cones, so they should only be used when needed and are not a long-term solution.

3. For allergies, try an elimination diet

If your vet suspects a food allergy, a diet change is in order. For recent flare-ups, try removing any new foods or additions to the environment. Slowly remove foods or items one at a time to identify the offending ingredient. You can also trial a hydrolysed diet. Remember, it can take 8 weeks to see an improvement and the diet needs to be adhered to strictly.

What the scab’s location can tell you

The location of your cat’s scabs can tell you and your veterinarian about the underlying cause of the skin irritation.

Back or rump

Scabs on your cat’s back can be caused by:

• Flea bite dermatitis
• Other allergies
• A cat bite from another cat

Neck

When the scabs appear on the neck, it may mean your cat has:

• Flea bite allergies
• Other allergies
• Mites
• Ringworm
• Insect bite or sting
• Autoimmune disease (pemphigus complex)

Ears

Scabs on the ears may be due to:

• Ear mites or mange
• An ear infection
• Autoimmune disorders
• Food or environmental allergies
• Sunburn or skin cancer

How can your vet help, and how much will it cost?

Diagnose the cause

Your veterinarian will start by performing a physical exam. The location and appearance of the scabs may provide clues to the cause. Some patients may require additional diagnostic tests, including:

• Skin scrapings
• Cytology
• Fungal cultures
• Biopsies
• Intradermal or IgE (blood) allergy tests
• Food elimination trials

Treat the condition

Once the vet has a diagnosis, she’ll be able to develop a plan to treat the underlying cause. We discussed some treatments above. Additionally, your doctor may recommend or prescribe:

• Flea bite dermatitis: Your kitty should be treated with a feline flea medication for 2-3 months to eliminate the pests. You’ll need to treat any other pets, as well as the home. Going forward, those with flea allergies should receive routine prevention. Cost of treatment runs about $200-400.
• Allergies: Your veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatories to reduce irritation and itching along with eliminating the offending allergen. Some kitties need ongoing medicine, or medicine at the time of flare ups, as allergies cannot be cured. The cost of treatment for allergies in cats can run $50-150 per month.
• Ringworm: Your cat needs anti fungal treatment to kill the infection. This may be a medicated wash and/or cream. Cost of treatment can range from about $100-500.
• Feline Acne: Your vet will prescribe topical antibacterial treatments to remove excess oils and blackheads. The cost of treatment ranges widely depending on the severity of the condition.

How long does it take for various types of scabs to heal?

Below, we offer typical recovery times for different scabs. Remember, however, that no two cats are alike, so the actual recovery periods can vary.

• Flea allergy dermatitis: While the bites should heal once fleas are eliminated, your cat may continue to itch for 1-2 weeks after any fleas have gone.
• Allergies: Allergies require ongoing control and management, as your kitty will experience a flare up every time they are exposed to their allergens. Keep in mind that many cats have more than one allergy.
• Ringworm: Ringworm takes an average of 3-5 weeks to completely heal, as fur takes time to grow back.
• Feline acne: Mild acne cases often resolve on their own, but severe cases can take several months to heal.

Are there other skin conditions that look like scabs?

A few conditions can mimic the appearance of scabs on cats.

• Dry, flaky skin or seborrhea can look like scabs in some cats.
• Some lumps may have a scab-like appearance. Warts (papillomas) can appear on the skin as a nodule that you may mistake for a scab. Some cats also develop injection site fibrosarcomas, which are malignant cancers.
• Cysts are sometimes mistaken for scabs, but are more pronounced and raised. They also tend to appear singularly.
• Ticks are smooth and, if you look close, you should be able to see dark legs. They attach for no more than 5 days.

What are scabs?

Scabs are a protective crusty covering which forms over a wound on the skin. These “natural bandaids” form when platelets collect around the edges of broken skin to form a blood clot.

With time and air exposure, the platelets reconfigure to create a mesh across the skin opening. The webbing captures escaping red blood cells. As the blood cells dry, a scab forms. Scabs vary in size, shape, and number. Itching usually accompanies feline scabs and may lead to further skin damage if your cat scratches or grooms the area excessively.

Author

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• Dr. Liz Guise, Veterinarian

  Dr. Elizabeth Guise (DVM) graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. She worked as a veterinarian in private practice for over two years before going to work with the USDA as a veterinary medical officer for 14 years.

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