Differential Diagnosis for a Cat Scratching the Hair Away from the Edges of its Mouth
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental disease (e.g., gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth resorption): This is the most likely diagnosis because dental issues are common in cats and can cause pain and discomfort, leading to scratching and hair loss around the mouth.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Food allergies or sensitivities: Cats with food allergies may exhibit oral and facial pruritus, leading to scratching and hair loss.
- Atopic dermatitis: This is a common skin condition in cats that can cause itching and scratching, including around the mouth.
- Flea allergy dermatitis: While fleas typically cause scratching on the back and tail, some cats may exhibit facial pruritus.
- Skin infections (e.g., bacterial, fungal): Infections can cause itching, scratching, and hair loss, including around the mouth.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral tumors: Although rare, oral tumors can cause significant discomfort and lead to scratching and hair loss around the mouth. Missing this diagnosis could be deadly.
- Eosinophilic granuloma complex: This is a rare condition that can cause oral and facial lesions, including ulcers and hair loss.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune skin disease that can cause blistering and hair loss, including around the mouth.
- Discoid lupus erythematosus: A rare autoimmune condition that can cause skin lesions and hair loss, including on the face.
- Nerve disorders (e.g., trigeminal neuralgia): Rare conditions that can cause facial pain and itching, leading to scratching and hair loss.