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Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Cats(FAD)
Dermatitis caused by hypersensitivity to allergens in flea saliva. Even a single flea bite can trigger severe symptoms in sensitized cats.
Vet Supervised
Symptoms
- Intense itching
- Hair loss on back to tail base
- Miliary dermatitis
- Excessive grooming
- Skin scabs
Related Symptom Pages
Causes
- Allergic reaction to flea saliva
- Flea infestation
Diagnosis
1
Clinical symptom evaluation
2
Detection of fleas or flea feces
3
Intradermal testing
4
Differential diagnosis (distinguishing from other allergies)
Treatment
- Complete flea elimination
- Environmental flea control
- Anti-inflammatory drugs/steroids
- Antihistamines
Prognosis
Prognosis is excellent with complete flea elimination. Symptoms recur with re-infestation.
Severity: Low
Prevention
- Year-round flea prevention medication
- Indoor flea control
- Regular brushing for early detection
Epidemiology
Age Range
All ages
Prevalence
One of the most common causes of feline skin disease