Gus just isn't doing well....

by Wendy
(Plainwell, Michigan.)

Hi there,

I have a mixed breed male cat of about two years. He has all his claws, and is an indoor/outdoor cat. We don't typically inoculate the cats, as they are barn cats and didn't with this one either. However, my son has become very attached to him, thus the 'indoor' part of his life.
For the past several months, we have noticed a large increase in itching, to the point where he has lost half of his fur. He itches until he is raw, and has quite a few scabs that are in various stages of healing all over his body. Mainly on his sides, as he can't get to his head. The fur is staying healthy where he doesn't itch.
He also is suffering from diarrhea. He has decided that the litter pan is not for him, and when he does use it, he doesn't get into it. Only perched on the edge and often misses it entirely.
I have a feeling that he may have contracted feline leukemia, but am unsure.

I'd love someone else's input.

Thanks so much.

Wendy

Answer by Kate
well I am not a vet and i don't think i should try and diagnose a problem like this as there could be many causes for his condition one of which could be fleas, or some other parasite which is causes both the itching, fur loss and diahrea.
My best advice is to take him to the vets as oon a spossible before the problem gets worse. The vet will be able to give a proper diagnosis and treatment.

It is especilly important to get him checked as if it is some sort of parasite it could infect your home or others depending what it is. Please see my pages on this site under cat health about fleas and worms etc.

best wishes kate

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