What should I do about a severe cat stomach rash?

by Dennis Gonzalez
(Brownsville, Texas)

This is Alex a Maine Coon cat. He was taken to the Vet and given a shot of antibiotics and was prescribed Prednisolone 5mg.

The cat stomach rash seemed to be getting better, but it started getting worse again. He constantly is licking that exposed area and is making it worse. I don't know what to do. I don't have the funds to take him to the vet again. Is there any way that I can personally treat this severe rash? Does anyone have an idea as to what it can be?

Thank you

Editor Suggestions - Treating Cat Stomach Rash

Dear Dennis,

Thank you for submitting your question and cat stomach rash pictures.

Skin conditions like a cat stomach rash appears to be an allergy on first sight, but can be more complicated than that.

Cat skin rashes, especially on the abdomen and/or inguinal region (cat groin) , may have various causes, the most common of which is an allergy. On the other hand, there are other possible explanations for this feline skin rash such as psychogenic dermatitis (because of stress & excessive self grooming), an underlying endocrine problem (related to imbalance of hormones) and most drastic cutaneous or skin tumors. Any of these possibilities can only be confirmed through a detailed examination and laboratory tests performed by your veterinarian.

Though we are not certain about the diagnosis made by your veterinarian during the examination and laboratory tests (if conducted), the prescription indicates that he/she too has suggested that the cat skin rash is caused by an allergy. Prednisolone is a corticosteroid, which can help to reduce allergy and cat itch symptoms. Antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate any secondary infection.

Here, are some suggested tips and ways to help reduce the cat skin symptoms properly and to provide comfort;

1. First, we recommend that you should make some changes in diet. Most cat skin allergy conditions are usually related to a cats diet. Try some novel ingredients and avoid common cat food allergens, like beef, fish, chicken and dairy products. Try a new hypoallergenic novel diet, and continue it for at least 1–9 weeks. Monitor the symptoms, which should resolve in this period. If this is a cat food allergy, it will not only be confirmed, but will also be treated.

2. Though we have not confirmed the exact cause of the cat skin condition, it is certain that the condition will worsen with time and secondary infections are possible. Therefore, you should use a medicated antimicrobial shampoo for bathing your cat. This shampoo will not only help in controlling microbial growth but also will soothe the rashes.

3. To reduce the symptoms of allergic response and itchiness, we'd recommend an anti-allergic hydrocortisone spray such as 21st Century Hydrocortisone Spray along with a dermal preparation meant for reducing symptoms of itchiness and allergy. The spray is a localized alternative to Prednisolone, and you should strictly follow the instructions of the manufacturer when applying it to your cats skin.

4. Since, a patient is continuously licking the affected area due to stress and habit, we'd recommend that an e-collar (to prevent licking) and a remedy made for reducing stress such as Allergy Itch Ease can also help. Most severe allergic responses are exhibited due to stress and discomfort, which affects the overall physiology (condition) of the cat.

5. In addition to the aforementioned tips, it's always better to avoid possible allergens in the environment. Do not allow the cat to roam around and play in the grass, and make sure that bedding is clean and your pet is not exposed to any chemicals, smoke and other possible allergens.

These tips and measures are for support only and do not replace the specific treatment recommended by your veterinarian. If the condition is a simple cat skin allergy, it should be resolved by these measures, otherwise your cat needs proper medical attention and a specific treatment after reaching a confirmed diagnosis.

Best of luck to you and your cat. Please keep us up to date on how you helped cure this cat skin rash condition.