Diesel Oil-Induced Alopecia in Two Cats

The document described a case study of two cats that experienced acute, rapidly progressing, bilaterally symmetrical hair loss on the ventrum and limbs following accidental skin exposure to diesel oil. The alopecia developed within 2 weeks, with the affected areas showing easily epilated hair, dry skin, and adherent scale. One cat exhibited erythema and a clear demarcation between affected and normal skin. Despite these symptoms, the cats showed no systemic signs and fully recovered without treatment. Histological examination of one cat revealed severe orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis, mild to moderate acanthosis, follicular keratosis, a moderate dermal infiltrate of mast cells, and a near absence of sebaceous glands. The study recommended thorough washing of the skin and haircoat with pure vegetable oil if a cat comes into contact with diesel oil.