Feline miliary dermatitis, often termed cat dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects cats of all ages and breeds. The condition is characterized by small, raised, and crusty lesions that are usually found on the head, neck, and back of the cat. These bumps on the cat's neck and back can be extremely itchy, causing the cat to scratch and bite at the affected areas, leading to further irritation and potential secondary skin infections. Military dermatitis in cats can be caused by various factors, but the two most common are flea-bite hypersensitivity and allergies.
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What is Feline Miliary Dermatitis?
Feline miliary dermatitis is a condition causing cat eczema-like symptoms, where cats develop itchy, raised sores on their neck and back that resemble millet seeds. The term “miliary” refers to the appearance of these lesions, which typically appear as small scabs or papules (red bumps) along the cat’s back and neck. In some cases, they may spread out to other parts of the body, including the head and ears.
The lesions are often itchy and can cause cats to scratch or bite at them, leading to further irritation and potential infection. Miliary dermatitis in cats may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). In most cases, it is a type of allergic reaction and we will discuss the common types next.
Causes of Miliary Dermatitis in Cats
Miliary dermatitis can be caused by various underlying factors, but it is common for cats with this condition to have cat allergies. Flea allergy is the most prevalent, followed by environmental allergies, and cat food allergies as the third most common cause of feline miliary dermatitis.
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
Flea allergy dermatitis is often the culprit behind cat rash on the belly and neck, caused by inflammatory reactions to flea saliva. Treatment for miliary dermatitis in cats often starts by addressing fleas, especially if scabs on the cat's back near the tail are noticeable.
Environmental allergens
Environmental allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites can also be the reason for dermatitis in cats. These allergic dermatitis triggers in cats are usually more prevalent during seasonal changes.
In some cases, a cat may have both flea allergies and environmental allergies causing their symptoms.
Indoor cats are not exempt from exposure to outdoor allergens. Despite living indoors, they can still come into contact with allergens, making them susceptible to miliary dermatitis. Commonly, these allergens are brought into the home on our clothing or through open windows for example.
Food allergies
Cat food allergies can also cause miliary dermatitis, often presenting with cat sores on the neck and frequent hairballs or vomiting.
Food allergies are usually triggered by proteins that are found in certain foods, such as chicken, beef, or fish. If your cat has food allergies, the lesions may appear anywhere on their body and may even spread to other areas.
Folliculitis
Although less frequent, folliculitis can manifest as miliary dermatitis in cats. This bacterial overgrowth on the skin appears as red or yellow scabs around the cat's neck and head.
If your veterinarian suspects folliculitis as the cause of miliary dermatitis in your cat, they should rule out the most common causes: Bacterial infection, demodex mites, and ringworm (dermatophytosis).
Clinical Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of feline miliary dermatitis is the first step in providing your cat with the relief they so desperately need. One of the most telling symptoms is an intensely itchy rash that prompts your cat to lick, bite, and scratch the affected areas. Even a gentle touch can cause a noticeable reaction, making your cat scratch, lick, or twitch in discomfort.
The condition often escalates quickly, leading to small lesions covered with scabs. These lesions can be a result of either the cat's self-inflicted trauma from scratching or the allergic reaction itself. The most commonly affected areas to watch out for include the lower spine, around the base of the tail, face, ears, neck, and abdomen. You may also notice that your cat's hair coat becomes thin in these areas, adding to the concern.
In more severe cases, the rash can become infected, manifesting as pustules or pimple-like lesions. Cats suffering from this advanced stage of the condition tend to spend an excessive amount of time grooming and scratching, which can further exacerbate the issue.
How is Miliary Dermatitis Diagnosed?
As the most common cause of feline miliary dermatitis is an allergy to flea bites, your veterinarian will perform a thorough exam of your cat to rule out fleas as the culprit. As cat dermatitis can occur from just a few flea bites, there may not be evidence of a massive flea infestation. Therefore, even though no adult fleas are noticed, this does not rule out fleas as the cause.
Tests your veterinarian may perform can include skin scrapings, cytology, trial medications, dietary elimination trials, and allergy testing if warranted.
Treatment of Feline Miliary Dermatitis
Treating feline miliary dermatitis often involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause, such as fleas, allergies, or infections. Your veterinarian may prescribe topical creams or ointments, oral medications, or recommend a hypoallergenic diet to help manage symptoms.
With proper treatment and ongoing management, many cats can experience significant improvement in their condition and lead a comfortable life.
To help your cat with miliary dermatitis, there are different treatment options available.
Here's what you can do:
- Use flea adulticides for flea control: If fleas are the problem, implementing proper flea control measures for your cat and its environment is essential.
- Consult your veterinarian for a diet change: If cat food allergies are suspected, a hypoallergenic or novel protein diet may be recommended.
- Apply prescribed topical treatments: Medicated shampoos, sprays, or creams can help alleviate itching and soothe the cat's skin.
- Administer prescribed medication: Antihistamines or corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and control allergic reactions in cats.
- Treat secondary infections: Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed if bacterial or fungal infections have developed due to scratching.
In closing, miliary dermatitis is a common skin condition in cats that can be caused by flea allergy dermatitis, environmental allergens, food allergies, and folliculitis. Although the symptoms are often similar across cases, it's important to recognize the cause behind your cat's miliary dermatitis in order to provide them with the best treatment and care possible. Talk to your veterinarian about the potential triggers behind your cat's miliary dermatitis and what you can do to help relieve their symptoms.