My calico cat's red fur is getting black spots. Is this normal?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely just a normal coloration change and nothing to worry about. There can be changes in the coat coloration throughout their lifetime. I do not think there is something you need to do at this time. Best of luck!

It’s difficult to say without doing an exam but these could be normal hair pigment changes. This sometimes will happens as a cat ages. I would also be concerned that something may be going on with the skin. I would make sure that it is just the hair that is discolored and the skin in that area look normal. I would be looking for an scabs, discoloration or redness of the skin and whether she is licking or bothered by those areas. If you are not sure, I would have your vet take a peak to ensure it looks normal. Your vet will be able to start her on the proper meds if needed. I hope this helps!

It's not uncommon for the black parts of the coat to turn reddish with sun exposure. That's the most common cause and it's a benign change. A poor diet could also potentially do it as well. Make sure you are feeding a high quality cat food. Please feel free to post any additional questions.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. To be honest, this looks like a normal seasonal shed for a long-haired cat. (They May not do it every year and the first one is often at 2-4 years of age). Brush her throughly every day for the next week or two. The little black dots are comedowns (basically blackheads) and are usually not concerning either. If she becomes completely bald over large patches, or the lethargy worsens or you see any other concerning signs, it’s time to see the vet. Best wishes to you and Puss.

Hello and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Hyperpigmentation is very common when there is chronic irritation in the skin, which happens with allergies. The hair can also change color as it grows back. I wouldn't be too concerned as long as the irritation is gone and that it is just pigment and not a raised growth. Monitor it closely and if you see it start to raise up rather than just be a flat, black spot on the skin, I would have it evaluated by your veterinarian.

This appears to be just a change in color of the hair alone. No worries. THe haircoat in kittens often does change as they get older. As long as the skin itself looks good as you part the hair, there is no concern. : ) Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Take care. : )

We can sometimes see color changes in haircoat in animals as they age, or as a result of inflammation or trauma to the skin. If there are no lesions (redness, crusts or scabs, raised bumps, etc.) and your kitty is not bothering at the area by licking/scratching at it, I would just continue to observe the site. I would check it weekly for changes. If he begins to lose hair, starts licking/scratching, the skin looks red or irritated or other spots appear, then a vet exam is recommended.