Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Cats
Key takeaways
A hot spot (pyotraumatic dermatitis) is an infection that develops on the surface of the skin as a result of a cat licking, scratching, or biting the skin.
- Hot spots are uncommon in cats
- Cats' skin has normal bacteria flora; any skin irritation might lead bacteria to overpopulate, causing infection
- Hot spots are usually on the face/chin, belly, or tail base, but can be anywhere
- Symptoms of hot spots include compulsive grooming, hair matting at affected area, and crusty, red skin lesions with moist discharge
- Causes include Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), allergies/hypersensitivities, pain or anxiety-related overgrooming, and autoimmune disease
- Diagnosis includes physical examination and skin cytology
- Treatment includes clipping and cleaning the affected area
- Topical or systemic antimicrobials and anti-inflammatories treat infection, itchiness, and pain
- Prognosis is good with treatment of the underlying cause
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A closer look: Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Cats
All skin has a diverse microflora of bacteria present on it which is not necessarily harmful to the host. In the case of hot spots, repeated damage to the skin through various actions can lead to an overgrowth of certain bacteria on the surface. This overgrowth can cause further irritation and infection leading to hot spots. Hot spots can quickly grow into much larger wounds, so no matter how small they are, they should be examined by a veterinarian. Hot spots are not common in cats.
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Risk factors
Symptoms of hot spots vary in intensity and location. Hot spots may be more common in cats with longer hair or thicker coats because the irritants that trigger them may be more likely to become trapped under the hair. Prognosis is good to excellent with appropriate treatment and depending on the underlying cause.
Possible causes
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
Hot spots can usually be identified with the naked eye during a physical examination. Investigation of the underlying cause includes skin scraping, skin cytology, and skin culture. If pain, urinary conditions, or systemic illness are suspected as the cause of the overgrooming, blood work, urinalysis and advanced imaging may be required.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment includes shaving the hair surrounding the lesion and thoroughly cleaning the area. Topical preparations may be applied to the lesions, such as antimicrobial and anti-itch ointments. Additional treatment differs based on the underlying cause. In some cases antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatories may be recommended. Cats may be fitted for an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) or protective clothing to prevent re-irritation of the affected area. Medicated wipes, cleansers, mousse, or shampoos may be prescribed for ongoing treatment of the lesion(s).
Hot spots may take weeks to months to heal, and are likely to recur, depending on the cause.
Prevention
- Regular veterinary checkups
- Flea/tick prevention even if the cat is indoor only
- Spotting signs of overgrooming or stress
- Avoiding contact with household chemicals
- Reducing irritation sources including tight collars
- Regular brushing (avoid mats, check skin)
Are Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Cats common?
Hot spots are uncommon in cats.
Typical Treatment
- Shave and clean area
- Antimicrobials (both topical and systemic)
- Anti-inflammatories (for pain and/or itchiness)
- Antiparasitics
- E-collar or protective clothing
