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What causes my indoor cat's recurring skin sores and licking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 years old | 8.5 lbs

My cat occasionally has sores. I always find them when they are scabbing and have not been able to find the cause. She doesn't seemed too bothered by them but she will lick them until I ask her to stop. This time the sore is bigger than usual. Any ideas on what maybe causing them? She is strictly indoors and on a grain-free diet.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 27th, 2017

This is probably caused by an allergic reaction. first of all make sure you de-flea Maisey once every 3 months with a high quality spot on (ex. Advantage) as fleas are by far the most common reason for these reactions (and it happens to strictly indoor cats as well). If the fleas are not the problem, it could be an allergic reaction to food or an environmental factor. this is more complicated to treat and will sometimes require medications such as Steroids, anti histamines or cyclosporin in order to stop the allergy.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 16th, 2019

    Yes, this looks like a flea allergy. Even if your cats are indoors only they still need monthly flea prevention. If they are indoor/outdoor they definitely need monthly flea prevention.

    Now that you know the fleas are in your house you also need to treat the house. I suggest this product:

    ( https://www.allivet.com/p-1389-knockout-es-area-treatment.aspx )

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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