Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: True “hot spots” (acute moist dermatitis) are much more common in dogs than cats. In cats, raw, oozing, or scabbed sores are usually caused by intense scratching or overgrooming from flea allergy, other allergies, or mites, or by eosinophilic lesions, bite wounds, or infections. The sore needs treatment, but so does the underlying itch, or it will come back.
Signs
- Red, raw, moist, or crusted patches
- Hair loss
- Constant licking or scratching at one area
- Sores on the head, neck, or back
Common causes
- Flea allergy
- Environmental or food allergies
- Ear mites or other mites (head and neck sores)
- Eosinophilic granuloma complex
- Bite wound infections
- Stress-related overgrooming
Treatment
- Clipping and gentle cleaning, sometimes under sedation
- Topical or oral medications as prescribed
- A soft cone or recovery suit to stop scratching
- Treating the underlying cause, starting with flea control for every pet
What to avoid
- Human creams, which cats lick off
- Tea tree and essential oils
- Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol
- Dog flea products
More: itchy cats.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Allergic dermatitis in cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Eosinophilic granuloma complex
- Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC): Fleas
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.