Most cats, except for hairless breeds, are covered in fur across almost their entire bodies. A cat’s fur coat can have up to three layers, depending on the breed, and range in length from short to long. However, one area where the fur tends to be thinner is the region between their eyes and ears.
This thinning of fur above the cat’s eye, called preauricular alopecia or facial alopecia, is common and usually harmless. The term “preauricular” refers to the area in front of the ear (the outer flap is called the auricle, or pinna and pre means before the ear). According to Small Animal Dermatology, fur loss in this area is typically a normal part of a cat’s aging process and doesn’t cause any harm.
When does facial alopecia start in cats?
Facial alopecia typically begins when cats are 14 to 20 months old. As cats grow into adults, the fur in the area between their eyes and ears naturally starts to thin. This thinning can look like small bald spots above the eyes, especially in shorthaired cats.
For many owners, this change might seem unusual or concerning at first. However, for most cats, this hairloss is completely normal and doesn’t require treatment. Once the fur thins, it tends to stay that way without spreading further or affecting other areas of the body.
Why does facial alopecia happen?
Facial alopecia happens for a few reasons:
- Genetics: Some breeds, like Siamese and Burmese, are more likely to experience facial alopecia due to their genetics. Short-haired cats are also more prone to it.
- Aging: As cats grow older, fur density naturally decreases in some areas, just like humans experience thinning hair.
- Whisker function: Thinner fur in this area may help cats’ whiskers work better by reducing interference with their surroundings.
This process is completely natural and doesn’t bother the cat.
Why do some cats show facial alopecia more than others?
Facial alopecia happens to all cats, but it is more obvious in certain breeds, colors, and fur lengths.
- Fur color: Darker-colored cats, like black or chocolate-coated felines, show facial alopecia more clearly. The contrast between their dark fur and lighter skin makes the thinning areas stand out.
- Fur length: Shorthaired cats display the thinning fur more prominently than longhaired cats. The longer, thicker fur of longhaired breeds can hide the balding spots.
- Breed predisposition: Some breeds, like Siamese and Burmese, are more likely to show noticeable preauricular alopecia due to genetic traits that affect fur density.
You might also notice that this thinning looks more pronounced when viewing your cat’s face from the side. From the front, their fur may seem full, but a profile view can reveal the thinner patches above their eyes.
These side by side photos of a two-year old torbie show how this female’s cat preauricular alopecia is starting to emerge. The frontal view of the torbie cat makes the fur between her eyes and ears look full. The side view shows how the fire between her eyes and ears is starting to thin.
Is facial alopecia more common in black cats?
Facial alopecia happens to all cats, but it’s easier to see in darker-colored cats, particlulary with black cats. The contrast between their dark fur and lighter skin makes the thinning area stand out more. Shorthaired cats also show this thinning more clearly than longhaired cats since longer fur can cover it.
When should you worry about fur loss?
While facial alopecia is normal, fur loss in other parts of the face or body might mean something is wrong. If you notice bald spots in other areas, it’s a good idea to check with your vet.
Common causes of unusual fur loss:
- Overgrooming: Cats may lick themselves too much because of stress, anxiety, or skin irritation.
- Fungal infections: Ringworm is a common cause of fur loss and can cause red or scabby patches.
- Parasites: Fleas or mites can irritate the skin, making cats scratch or groom excessively.
- Allergies: Cats can lose fur due to food allergies, fleas, or something in their environment.
- Health issues: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or cancer can sometimes lead to fur loss.
- Nutritional problems: If a cat’s diet lacks important nutrients, such as fatty acids, their fur may thin.
If your cat’s fur loss comes with redness, swelling, or scabs, call your vet if you are concerned. Catching problems early can often help prevent them from getting worse. If your cat is starting to experience fur loss in other areas of their face or body, it could be a sign of a health issue.
How to keep your cat’s fur healthy
Facial alopecia doesn’t require treatment, but keeping your cat’s coat and skin healthy is always a good idea. Here are some tips:
- Feed a balanced diet: Foods with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help keep a cat’s fur shiny and healthy.
- Groom regularly: Brushing your cat removes loose fur, keeps their coat clean, and stimulates natural oils that keep their skin healthy.
- Prevent fleas: Use flea treatments recommended by your vet to stop itching and irritation.
- Reduce stress: Make sure your cat has toys, climbing spaces, and quiet areas to help them feel safe.
- Visit the vet: Regular check-ups can catch any health problems before they become serious.
References
Ashley, P. (2019). Non‐endocrine alopecia. Clinical Atlas of Canine and Feline Dermatology, 309-322.
Hnilica, K. A., & Patterson, A. P. (Eds.). (2017). Chapter 9—Hereditary, Congenital, and Acquired Alopecias. In Small Animal Dermatology (Fourth Edition) (pp. 302–352). W.B. Saunders. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-37651-8.00009-2
Moriello, K. A. (2018, August 23). Hair loss (Alopecia) in cats – Cat owners – Merck veterinary manual. Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/skin-disorders-of-cats/hair-loss-alopecia-in-cats
This article was originally written on November 5, 2022 and has since been updated.
