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Andrew

I have notices that he has been ripping his hair due to the excessive itching, I did change his food thinking it was a food allergy. He is still his he does scratch his face and constantly lick himself majority of the day. His right ear is scabbed and I believe he may have ripped it open. I am currently taking care of the wound and will be getting OTC antibiotics for him till I can get him to a vet.

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Jaxson
Cat, Mixed
4 years 11 months, Male
Issue details
Main concern
Skin
Scabbing
Hair loss
Excessive itching
Others
Scabs are splitting open
Ear
Head
Chest
Duration
1 month(s)
Ongoing
Other issues
Vomiting
Itching
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Dr. Choe
Dr.Tail Vet

It sounds like your cat is going through quite a bit of discomfort, and it's great that you're being so attentive to his needs. The symptoms you're observing, such as scabbing, hair loss, and excessive itching, could be attributed to a variety of factors. These might include allergies, parasites like fleas or mites, or even a skin infection.

Since you've already made changes to his diet, it might be helpful to consider other potential allergens in his environment. These could include cleaning products or any new plants you've introduced. Keeping his surroundings clean and free of irritants is important.

For the scabbed ear, continue to gently clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution to help prevent infection. Be cautious with over-the-counter antibiotics, as not all are suitable for cats. It's always best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate medication.

To help manage his itching, you might consider using a soothing oatmeal-based shampoo or a hypoallergenic rinse. However, be careful not to bathe him too frequently, as this can dry out his skin even more.

Keep a close eye on his condition, particularly for any signs of worsening symptoms like increased redness, swelling, or lethargy. If his symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek veterinary care to identify the underlying cause and ensure he receives the appropriate treatment.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you for reaching out.