Feline Miliary Dermatitis is an outward sign of an itchy skin condition that can be caused by a number of reasons. Flea allergy is the most common reason for feline miliary dermatitis, but other types of allergies can also be the cause. Other causes include bacterial skin infections, ringworm and parasites; such as mites and lice. This condition can cause the cat to scratch, chew or lick patches in its fur until they are dry, hairless and bleeding.
It is important to diagnose the underlying cause of the dermatitis in cats so it can be treated effectively.
Feline miliary dermatitis symptoms can include scratching, rubbing, licking, chewing or excessive grooming with resultant hair loss. Hair loss is commonly found on the cat’s chin, neck and at the base of the tail. Additionally, small, crusty, red bumps may be seen.
It is estimated that nearly 80% of cats affected by Miliary Dermatitis have flea bite hypersensitivity.
Feline Miliary Dermatitis can be difficult to treat if the direct cause has not been determined. Generally, corticosteroids and antibiotics are used to control the itching, but the underlying cause still needs to be addressed. If the direct cause of the dermatitis in cats is not found, or the allergy eliminated, the condition will return once the inflammation clears up and the medications are stopped. Therefore, these medications for dermatitis in cats will be needed off and on, and for long periods of time, just to keep the symptoms at bay.
Stem cells break the cycle of remission and relapse by “resetting” the cat’s immune system. Stem cells effectively stop the cat’s immune system from attacking itself, thereby, clearing up the condition. Your pet can be treated with one or two stem cell injections intravenously, which will resolve symptoms within a few weeks, with long term resolution.
