If she's scratching up a storm, it might be time to go to the vet. While this topic isn't much fun, it is important for every cat parent to know about. If your resident feline is scratching or licking excessively and she has a crusty red rash, she may have miliary dermatitis. It's a lot like hot spots on dogs, if you're familiar with that condition. But don't worry, it's treatable. Miliary dermatitis, also called scabby cat disease, is an allergic skin reaction caused by a variety of allergens. The inflammation comes from a systemic reaction to one or more allergens that your cat is both exposed and sensitive to. A rash can appear, which your kitty may lick, bite or scratch; and that can turn into painful lesions with scabs on them. What Causes Feline Miliary Dermatitis? "The most common cause of miliary dermatitis in cats is a flea allergy. It can also be caused by environmental allergies (pollens, house dust mites or storage mites, molds, other pets), seasonal allergies (pollens), food allergies, skin parasites (mites), and autoimmune diseases," says Christine Sellers, DVM, and veterinary advisor for Cat Person. Signs of Miliary Dermatitis in Cats If you see these symptoms, your feline friend may have miliary dermatitis or possibly another skin condition, so it's best to consult your vet: Red, crusty rash or pimple-like wounds (usually around the neck, head, back, flanks, and belly) Continuous scratching Lesions and scabs because of scratching Excessive licking Thinning of the cat's coat in certain areas Is Miliary Dermatitis in Cats Contagious? Typically, feline miliary dermatitis is not contagious to…