Scabs under kittens' chins and on top of head

My two twin kittens have scabs under their chins and on top of their heads by their ears. What would cause this? They are indoor only. Ive checked for fleas but they still scratch. But my other two cats do not do have any of those symptoms.

  • Vetinfo

    By: Kara McCarty El Segundo, CA

    Replied on 04/19/2011

    Ear mites can make kittens rub their ears and faces enough to cause scabs. Check their ears to see if there is dry, black, waxy material inside. If so this often signals ear mites. Your veterinarian will have very effective treatment available. Your adult cats will have to be treated too as they can have the mites even with no symptoms and if you don't treat everyone they are almost impossible to get rid of. Ringworm infections can also cause the symptoms you are describing so if no ear mites are present you might want to have a fungal culture done. You can catch ringworm from them and so can your other pets so you may want to isolate the kittens and wash your hands well after playing with them. Adult cats can carry ringworm without symptoms so have your adults checked if your kittens are positive. Food allergies can also make their faces very itchy and cause them to rub enough to cause scabbing. Kara, DVM

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