Stud Tail in Cats

Jun 1, 2022

3 min read

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Have a look at the base of your cat’s tail. Is it greasy? If so, your cat might have stud tail. It’s an issue with their sebaceous glands, which are near the base of the tail and produce oil or wax to keep your cat’s fur soft and healthy. With stud tail in cats, these glands are overactive, producing so much oil that it builds up on the fur. Stud tail is often a hormonal issue in non-neutered cats, but it can occur in every cat.

What are the potential symptoms of stud tail in cats?

It’s pretty easy to spot the symptoms of stud tail in cats:

Greasy spot at the base of the tail
Yellowing of light-colored fur at the site
Fur loss
Swelling or sores at the site

What tests are used to confirm stud tail in cats?

Just as you can easily see stud tail, your vet will be able to as well. Testing for this condition is minimal and can include:

Physical examination of the area
Diagnostic tests to rule out other issues that can look like stud tail
Sample analysis of infection, if one exists

What is the treatment for stud tail in cats?

Treatment for stud tail in cats depends on how severe the case is. For mild stud tail cases, you may be sent home with a shampoo that removes grease (antiseborrheic) and is likely antibacterial. You may also get an ointment to apply to the affected area. For cats with an infection from stud tail, they may be put on antibiotics and possibly an anti-inflammatory. Your cat may also get a cone to wear until the area clears up.

What is the typical cost of treatment for stud tail in cats?

Including the exam and any medications, treating stud tail in cats can range from $100 up to the thousands, if they need a full workup or hospitalization.

Hours at the vet: As little as 30 minutes, as long as 2 hours.

What are the recovery steps for stud tail in cats?

Clean the cat’s stud tail.
Perform maintenance steps as prescribed, like using antibacterial or antiseborrheic shampoo regularly.
Complete all medications prescribed.
Wash the area on a regular schedule until the issue is resolved.

How do I prevent stud tail in cats?

Neutering your cat, especially if he is male, can help prevent stud tail. It can help calm down any hormones that are causing the excess oil buildup. But this is not a guarantee. You also need to ensure that your cat has enough space to groom effectively and a low-stress environment. Beyond that, just watch the area and keep it clean. If your cat is amenable to grooming, take them to get groomed on a regular basis.