Hair loss in pets is more than just a cosmetic concern—it can indicate underlying health issues that require attention. At Memorial Villages Animal Hospital, we help pet owners address hair loss by identifying the root cause and providing effective treatment solutions. Whether the cause is allergies, parasites, infections, or other medical conditions, early intervention is key to ensuring your pet’s health and comfort.

Common Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs and Cats

1. Allergies

Pets, like humans, can suffer from allergic reactions that lead to excessive scratching, licking, and hair loss. Common allergens include:

  • Food Allergies – Certain proteins, dairy, wheat, or additives in pet food can trigger reactions.
  • Environmental Allergies – Pollen, mold, dust mites, and grasses can cause itching and irritation.
  • Flea Allergies – Even a single flea bite can cause a severe reaction in sensitive pets.

Hair loss caused by allergies is often accompanied by red, inflamed skin, excessive itching, and secondary infections.

Learn more about dog allergies and treatment options at Dog Allergies: Symptoms & Treatment – AKC.

2. Parasites (Fleas, Mites, and Ticks)

Fleas, mites, and ticks are some of the most common causes of hair loss in pets. These parasites cause intense itching, leading to scratching, biting, and bald spots.

  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is an extreme reaction to flea saliva that results in severe hair loss, redness, and skin infections.
  • Mange (Mites) – Sarcoptic and Demodectic mange are caused by mites burrowing into the skin, leading to patchy hair loss, crusting, and thickened skin.
  • Ticks – While ticks do not directly cause hair loss, excessive scratching due to irritation can result in bald spots.

Learn more about flea allergies in cats at Cornell Feline Health Center.

Read about the importance of year-round parasite prevention at AAHA.

3. Skin Infections and Fungal Conditions

Bacterial and fungal infections can lead to patchy or widespread hair loss, redness, and foul odors. Some of the most common infections include:

  • Ringworm – A contagious fungal infection that causes circular bald patches, crusting, and scaly skin.
  • Bacterial Infections (Pyoderma) – These infections often develop secondary to allergies or trauma from scratching.

Prompt veterinary diagnosis and treatment, including antibiotics or antifungal medications, are necessary to resolve these infections.

4. Hormonal Imbalances and Endocrine Disorders

Hair loss can also be a symptom of hormonal imbalances in pets. Common endocrine disorders include:

  • Hypothyroidism (Dogs) – A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to hair thinning, weight gain, and lethargy.
  • Cushing’s Disease – An overproduction of cortisol that causes symmetrical hair loss, increased thirst, and skin thinning.
  • Sex Hormone Imbalances – Neutering or spaying issues, as well as exposure to human hormone creams, can result in patchy or symmetrical hair loss.

Blood tests are essential in diagnosing endocrine disorders.

Read about the importance of blood work for pets at Pet Health Network.

5. Stress and Over-Grooming

Pets experiencing anxiety, pain, or environmental stress may overgroom, leading to hair loss. Cats, in particular, are prone to psychogenic alopecia, where excessive licking and grooming result in bald patches, often along the belly and legs.

  • Pain-Related Overgrooming – Pets with arthritis or skin irritation may lick the affected area excessively.
  • Separation Anxiety – Stress-related behaviors in pets, such as overgrooming, can indicate underlying anxiety.

6. Seasonal and Genetic Hair Loss

Some pets experience seasonal hair loss due to changes in temperature and daylight hours. Breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Labrador Retrievers naturally shed more during seasonal transitions.

Certain breeds are also genetically prone to hair thinning, including:

  • Dachshunds (Color Dilution Alopecia)
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • Greyhounds and Whippets

Diagnosing Hair Loss in Pets

Veterinarians at Memorial Villages Animal Hospital use a combination of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of hair loss:

  • Physical Examination – Identifies external parasites, skin irritation, and infection signs.
  • Skin Scrapings & Cytology – Used to check for mites, bacteria, and fungal infections.
  • Blood Work & Thyroid Testing – Helps diagnose hormonal imbalances and metabolic conditions.
  • Allergy Testing – Determines if environmental or food allergies are contributing factors.

If your pet is experiencing unexplained hair loss, schedule an exam today at Memorial Villages Animal Hospital.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss in Pets

Once the cause of hair loss is determined, treatment is tailored to your pet’s specific needs:

  • Medications: Antihistamines, antibiotics, antifungal treatments, or hormone therapy.
  • Parasite Prevention: Monthly flea, tick, and mite control to prevent infestations.
  • Dietary Adjustments: High-quality diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins to support skin and coat health.
  • Stress Management: Environmental enrichment, interactive toys, and behavioral therapy for pets with anxiety-related hair loss.

Read more about the benefits of regular grooming at ASPCA.

When to See a Veterinarian

Seek veterinary care if your pet experiences:

  • Sudden or severe hair loss
  • Open sores, scabs, or persistent skin infections
  • Extreme itching, licking, or biting
  • Changes in appetite, weight, or energy levels

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure your pet’s comfort. If your pet is struggling with hair loss, schedule an appointment today.

Hair loss in dogs and cats is often a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a standalone problem. From allergies and parasites to hormonal disorders and stress, identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment.

At Memorial Villages Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating skin conditions to keep your pet healthy and happy. If you have concerns about your pet’s coat or skin health, contact our team today.