Hi Shari,

Hair loss in cats can be caused by a few different things. Fleas and allergies to fleas can definately be one cause, so treating this kitty for fleas is a good first step. However, some over the counter flea products are TOXIC to cats and can cause seizures! You will need to purchase Advantage, Frontline, or Revolution from a veterinarian to treat the fleas. One other word of caution...sometimes when cats lose their hair in patches like you are describing, it is actually caused by ringworm. Ringworm is not a worm at all, it is really a fungal infection of the skin. The bad news is that ringworm can be contagious to humans, so if you get any itchy red patches, see your doctor. The good news, if this kitty has ringworm it can be fixed with shampoo and oral medication. Ringworm can be detected by a simple hair test called a fungal culture. Any regular vet can do this test and get you medications for ringworm if it comes back positive.