What is Miliary Dermatitis?
Miliary Dermatitis is a skin condition in cats. It causes little scabs, about the size of millet seeds, to appear all over their body. These scabs are usually very itchy. Cats might scratch themselves a lot and pull out their fur because of this.
What Causes Miliary Dermatitis?
The most common cause of miliary dermatitis is fleas. Other possible causes include:
- Food allergies
- Non-flea skin parasites like mites, specifically Cheyletiellosis
Previously, hormonal problems and vitamin deficiencies were thought to be causes, but they might not cause this condition alone. Multiple factors might work together to cause miliary dermatitis.
Distribution Patterns
The location of the scabs can help identify the cause:
- Scabs along the back and neck that spread to the whole body suggest a flea allergy.
- Hair loss around the rump area and along the back also indicates a flea allergy.
- Scabs more concentrated on the head and tail may point to food allergies.
Treatment for Miliary Dermatitis
To treat Miliary Dermatitis, start with the most common cause: fleas.
Steps to Eliminate Fleas
- Ask about the current flea control routine and check for fleas or flea dirt using a flea comb.
- Use products like Revolution, Frontline, or Advantage to kill fleas on the cat and in the environment.
If fleas are not the cause, consider food allergies.
Food Allergy Elimination
- Hospitalize and fast the cat for 3-4 days.
- Feed a special low-allergenic diet and prevent the cat from eating anything else.
- Observe if the condition improves within three weeks. If it does, try adding back foods one by one to see which causes a reaction.
If no cause is found, medication called Megestrol acetate might help.
Miliary Dermatitis can be frustrating, but with proper treatment, your cat can find relief from the itchiness and discomfort. Always consult a vet for accurate diagnosis and treatment options.
Article by John Allerton BVSc