What's this red spot on my cat's head? When should I see a vet?

The spots could be from your cat itching excessively at her ears, or they could be a little bruises under the skin. It is difficult to know which is going on based on the pictures. I would recommend taking your cat into the vet because if it is bruises this could indicate a bleeding or clotting disorder. Hopefully it is nothing too serious going on, but I would have it checked out just to be safe.

Scratching around the ears or eyes may indicate an allergy, or may even indicate a problem with the ears themselves such as an infection or ear mites (very common in cats). Signs of [ear mites](https://www.petcoach.co/cat/condition/ear-mites/) include dark or dirty debris that is black or deep red in appearance, or you may see other debris that is foul-smelling in the ears. Ear mites and infections usually require a sample being taken by the vet to determine the exact cause, as well as a regimen of [cleaning the ears](https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-clean-your-cat-s-ears-what-you-need-to-know/) with a medicated cleaner for 7-10 days. Ear mites can be spread to other pets, so treating any other dogs or cats in the house at the same time is best. If the ears are clear but you are seeing redness, it may indicate an allergy, or even possible problems such as [ring worm](https://www.petcoach.co/cat/condition/ringworm/) (which appear as a red "target" ring that will gradually increase in size over time, and IS contagious to other pets and people). Your vet can provide you with an allergy medication dosage to treat minor allergies, or may ask you to bring in your cat for an exam if you suspect ringworm or other skin infections.

Is your pet itching or scratching at its head/ears? Outdoor kitty with the potential for being in a fight or being wounded? These could be excoriations/superficial wounds. If your pet is scratching/itching a lot than these could be caused by an ear infection (bacteria/yeast/ear mites) or allergy (food, flea, etc.), etc. Some medications older cats take can also cause an itchy face, so if your pet is taking a new medication this could be the cause and you should alert your veterinarian. As the lesions appear raw and ulcerated the best plan would be to have your pet seen by your family veterinarian for an exam and ear assessment. That way if medications are needed to improve comfort they can be prescribed. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

It actually looks like Toby has been scratching himself in that area, and since it's near the ear, that could suggest an issue with his ear such as an ear infection. I do think it's best to get his ear checked out by a vet. Give his vet a call in the morning to make him an appointment. Best of luck.

Hi there! There are a few things this could be including, primary dermatological problem, trauma (especially if you have another cat in the house that could have swatted Hugo and scratched his face), or potentially tooth related. I would recommend having the area evaluated by a veterinarian for diagnostics like skin scrape for skin problems, clip/clean if trauma, and an oral exam/oral x-rays to identify a tooth related problem. Another option would be to continue to monitor the area. Any changes such as spreading hair loss, swelling, drainage, or if Hugo becomes bothered by the lesion he definitely needs to be seen by a veterinarian. I think it is worth going ahead and taking him in so that things do not progress. Hope this helps!

It looks like scabbing may be on Wizard's head. This can be from irritation from his ear or even eye. If he is trying to rub or scratch one or the other he can be getting this spot. I would recommend a visit to the veterinarian to have his eye, ear and skin in the area evaluated. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

This is probably chin acne. ( https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chin-acne-in-cats ) You can try these medicated pads on the affected areas once a day. If it doesn't seem to help within a week or so of treatment then I suggest you take him to the vet for an exam. ( https://www.amazon.co.uk/Douxo-recommended-antibacterial-antifungal-wipes/dp/B07JKTKZZG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=duoxo+pyo+pads&qid=1581780497&s=pet-supplies&sr=1-1-catcorr )