Why Is My Cat Losing Hair on Its Head?

Daily Care ๐Ÿ“… August 7, 2026 ๐Ÿ‘ 7441

๐Ÿ“ Summary

A cat that rubs its head on things and on you can thin the hair there. More concerning causes are ear mitesโ€”look for brown discharge and a foul smell in the earsโ€”and parasites, which usually come with itching and red skin. If the bald spot has no other symptoms and hair grows back, it is likely nothing serious; if it does not, have the cat checked.

1 Normal Head-Rubbing

Cats often rub their heads on objects and on their owners. This behavior can encourage hair loss on the head and leave the area looking thin.

2 Ear Mites

When you notice a bald head, check whether the cat is itching or has skin ulcers. Ear mites cause abnormal shedding; if you find brown discharge inside the ears with an unpleasant odor, the cat has very likely picked up ear mites.

3 Parasites and When to Worry

A parasite infection on the head can also cause hair loss there, but it usually comes with itching and redness. If the cat has only a bald spot and no other symptoms, it is probably not a serious problem. Watch whether the hair regrows; if it does not come back, take the cat in for a check-up.

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