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Facial Alopecia (Hair Loss) in Cats

Facial Alopecia (Hair Loss) in Cats

Updated On November 5th, 2024

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Reviewed By Petco's Veterinarian Team

The normal hair loss between the eyes and the ears in cats is called 'facial alopecia,' or 'preauricular' (literally, before the ear) alopecia. It is seen in male and female cats and is more noticeable in the shorthaired varieties.

Facial alopecia is not a medical disorder or a disease. It is a normal aging process. Kittens have equal hair density over their entire bodies. As they age, certain areas 'thin out.' On the face, this usually starts when they are 14 to 20 months old and continues until they are about 3 years old.

If you see this hair loss in your cat and there are no lesions or scratching, what you are seeing in your cat is a normal aging process and should not cause any concern.

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