cat health, face scratching and licking

Question
Hi Jessica,

I'll be brief, tahnk you for your support.
The cat I am refering to is a black domestic, Negrutz. I have learned that black cats are different than other cats and more exposed to neurotic behaviours. Mine is like that, he has his moments... The other one that we have is an easy-going, calm and assertive Maine Coon. The black one, Negrutz, is mostly defensive and prepared to run, his first reaction when we have guests is to go under the bed, he is eating fast, meows sometimes during the night asking for attention, wakes me up early in the morning (4:00AM) to feed him, etc, while the other one is sleeping peacefully. Since a couple of weeks ago I have noticed that he has started to scratch his face obssessively, then he's licking his paw and cleanse his face again. Initially I thought it was a behavioural thing. Then I saw a bald spot on his face under the eye. The skin was sore and red. I applied a bit of antibiotic cream and seemed to heal. However, 3 days ago I discovered 3 or 4 more lumps on the same side but near the mouth corner.
I feed them both raw food, Dr. Lisa Pierson's recipe, and sometimes canned food, the best I can find. Everything is fresh, chicken is supossedly free of antibiotics, the hearts and liver are organic, the vitamins are always there (B complex, fish oil -in capsules because I am afraid it might get spoiled, and Taurine). I keep all the supplements in the fridge. Cats are not stressed, they are loved very much by both of us (I and my husband), we don't have kids, no stress whatsoever except for the fact that they are in-door cats. They love us and are very responsive to our attention, sleep with us and we take good care of them. Could face scratching be a sign of ringworm or parasites? I am going to see our vet next week, but I cannot go there the next days because my husband is on a trip for a few days and we have only one car. Please advise. Thank you very much and create a beautiful week end. Cristina

Answer
Hi Cristina,

Yes, the face scratching can be a sign of parasites or a skin infection like ringworm or staph. It can also indicate an allergy or an autoimmune disease. These are more common reasons for scratching and fur loss on the face than a strictly behavioral issue. Behavioral issues more often involve licking, and fur loss on the legs and flanks.

Do get your kitty in to the vet as soon as you can. Parasites and infections can be contagious to your other cat, and sometimes even to people. It may be wise to isolate Negrurtz from your other cat until you have ruled out contagious causes.

Good luck!
Jessica