Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
If you've ever caught your cat obsessively licking or scratching one area of its body, only to discover red, inflamed skin underneath, you're likely facing a hot spot. These angry patches can flare up almost overnight and spiral fast, making them a real source of stress for both cats and their humans.
Cat hot spots are a common skin issue, but the good news is they're treatable and often preventable with the right care. This guide outlines everything you need to know, including what causes hot spots on cats, how to recognize them, and the best hot spot treatment options—both at home and with the help of your vet.
What Are Hot Spots on Cats?
Hot spots—also known as acute moist dermatitis—are inflamed, infected areas of a cat's skin that often develop suddenly.1 They typically appear as red, moist and sometimes oozing lesions that can be painful or itchy. The surrounding fur may be matted, and in some cases, the affected area is hairless due to excessive licking or scratching.
Unlike chronic skin conditions that develop slowly, feline hot spots can escalate fast. A small irritation in the morning can turn into a raw, weepy patch by evening if your cat continues to aggravate it.
Symptoms of Hot Spots
Hot spots on cats are usually easy to see if you know what to look for. Common physical signs include:2
- Red, inflamed patches of skin
- Oozing or crusty lesions
- Missing fur around the affected area
- Warmth or tenderness to the touch
Behavioral signs can also signal a problem. If your cat is persistently licking, biting or scratching one area—or seems restless or uncomfortable—it could be a sign of a developing hot spot.3
Some of the most common locations for cat hot spots include the head, neck, back, hips and base of the tail.
Causes of Hot Spots in Cats
Hot spots don't appear without a reason. They're typically the result of an underlying issue that causes your cat to scratch or lick excessively. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Fleas and parasites are one of the most common causes of skin irritation and can quickly lead to hot spots if not treated.
- Common cat allergies, including food sensitivities, contact irritants and environmental allergens, often cause itching and inflammation that may result in hot spots.
- Infections, whether bacterial or fungal, can irritate the skin and lead to excessive licking or scratching.
- Matted fur can trap moisture and create friction against the skin, setting the stage for irritation and infection.
- Stress or boredom may cause your cat to over-groom, which can damage the skin and lead to hot spot development.
- Injuries or insect bites, even minor ones, can become inflamed and worsen if your cat continues to lick or scratch the area.
How Are Hot Spots Diagnosed?
If you suspect your cat has a hot spot, a visit to the vet is the best next step. Your veterinarian will likely begin with a physical exam and may shave the area to get a clear look at the lesion. Diagnostic tests such as skin scrapings, fungal cultures or allergy testing may be done to determine the underlying cause.4
Identifying what's behind the hot spot is key—otherwise, the issue may keep coming back.
Treatment Options for Hot Spots
Treating cat hot spots promptly is key to relieving discomfort and preventing the condition from getting worse.
At-home care
If the hot spot is small and mild, you may be able to start with basic home care. Clean the area gently with a mild soap or a pet-safe antiseptic solution and carefully trim the surrounding fur to prevent moisture buildup.5 A cat hot spot home remedy, such as aloe vera or coconut oil, may help soothe the skin—but always check with your vet first.
Using an e-collar or soft cone can prevent your cat from scratching or licking off any topical medications you have applied, which is essential for healing.
Veterinary treatment
For more severe or persistent cases, veterinary care is often needed. Cat hot spot treatment may include:6
- Topical or oral antibiotics to treat the infection
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce itching and pain
- Medicated shampoos or sprays for cleaning and soothing the skin
- Changes to your cat's diet or environment to reduce exposure to allergens or irritants
- Stress reduction through enrichment, routine, anxiolytics or behavior-modifying medications, as well as a calm living space to prevent over-grooming
- Antihistamines or other prescription-strength allergy medications to manage chronic allergic reactions and minimize flare-ups
In some cases, if the hot spot is a symptom of a larger issue like allergies or parasites, your vet will address those underlying causes as part of the treatment plan, including ordering allergy testing to confirm environmental or other allergens.
Hot Spot Recovery Tips
Helping your cat recover from a hot spot involves more than just treating the wound. Here are a few tips to promote healing:
- Use an e-collar to prevent your cat from licking or scratching.
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Monitor for signs of infection or worsening, as well as any other cat skin diseases.
- Follow your vet's treatment instructions closely.
Preventing Hot Spots
Prevention is always better than a cure. Here are some ways to help your cat avoid future hot spots:
- Regular grooming to prevent matting and skin irritation
- Flea prevention to avoid parasite-related scratching
- Clean living environment to reduce exposure to allergens
- Enrichment and play to combat stress and boredom
- Routine vet checkups to catch potential issues early
Managing your cat's overall health, both physical and emotional, is one of the best ways to avoid the painful cycle of cat hot spots as well as other common kitten diseases and illnesses.
Pets Best Is Here To Help
Hot spots on cats can be uncomfortable for your pet and stressful for you—but with early intervention and the right treatment, they're manageable and often preventable. By staying aware of the symptoms, addressing underlying causes and working with your vet, you can help your cat heal quickly and stay healthy.
Don't forget that Pets Best cat insurance may help you cover unexpected vet visits and treatments. The 24/7 Pet Helpline is a great policyholder resource if you're unsure about your cat's symptoms or need quick advice. With the right support and proactive care, you can keep your cat happy, healthy and free from future hot spots.
Sources/ Citations
- “Acute Moist Dermatitis (“Hot Spots")," (2020), Chappelle Veterinary Clinic, https://chappellevet.ca/acute-moist-dermatitis-hot-spots/
- “Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Dogs and Cats," Wendy Brooks (11/2024), Veterinary Partner, https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102903&id=4952981
- “Hot Spots on Cats: Causes & Treatment," (8/2024), Washington Dog and Cat Hospital, https://www.washingtondogandcathospital.com/site/blog/2024/08/30/hot-spots-cats
- “Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis) in Cats," (3/2024), Vetster, https://vetster.com/en/conditions/cat/hot-spots-pyotraumatic-dermatitis
- “Hot spots," (n.d.), Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/hot-spots
- “Cat Hot Spots: Causes & Treatment," (6/2024), A-Animal Clinic & Boarding Kennel, https://www.a-animalclinic.com/site/blog/2024/06/15/cat-hot-spots