I have a pet quality maine coon brown classic male tabby, turned one last October. I entered him in a show in October, he did not final in any of the rings, however he took best of breed against one other maine coon in 3 out of 5 rings. I know he is not show quality but I wanted to show him for fun. He has a bald spot on each of his back hocks. (the part of the leg above the ankle. I thought it was from laying down, but I think it is something else. It appears to be slightly dry and a tiny bit of flaking. I have tried brushing the fur on the sides over but it still has that bald spot look to it. About the size of a quarter. Has anyone else ever seen this in their cats? My other question is will this hold him back from ever finalling in a show ring. Should I re-register him as a household pet to show? Thanks for helping. My vet said it was fine.

-- Anonymous, March 13, 2000

Answers

You might check with your vet concerning ringworm. Ringworm is actually a fungus and bot a worm but is very contagious. You might wait to show your MC until this can be cleared up. Ringworm of the scalp may begin in the form of a small pimple or sore which then spreads into the ring shape. Infected hairs become brittle and break easily or fall out leaving a bald mangy looking spot on the scalp. Symptoms of ringworm of the body are the development of red or pink flat or slightly raised patches of skin frequently with circular sores that may be dry or scaly or crusted or moist. As the sores enlarge, the center of the area frequently clears leavinging apparent normal skin surrounded by an infected edge. These ring-shaped growths have lead to the name "ringworm" for this disease. If your vet is unsure, get a second opinion. Also, this is contagious people wise so look for some of the same markings on yourself.

-- Anonymous, March 17, 2000

Is he eating Science Diet? That could be the culprit.

-- Anonymous, March 11, 2001