Bald Spot on Hock?

Hi y'all,

I'm new here and I have a question for you guys. Today, while grooming Bear (he's a seal-point Siamese moggie I recently adopted from the local SPCA, and an absolute sweetheart), I noticed a bald spot of around 4mm on the hock/joint of his left hindleg that was not there before. The spot's not inflamed, not scaly, just bald. The rest of his coat is soft and full and glossy, so I don't know what the problem is.

I've been feeding him a wet/dry mix of Purina Cat Chow (bad, I know, but it was what his previous owner had fed him) and boiled minced chicken breast with occasional poached salmon and shrimp and he's been doing well on it, so I don't think it's due to a nutrient deficiency. He was also treated with Frontline at the SPCA, so hopefully it's not fleas neither. Could it be a case of overgrooming (even though I've rarely seen him lick there)? Due to stress, boredom, or something else? Or is it an infection of some sort? Should I take him to the vet, or wait it out?

Forgive me, I'm a first-time cat owner and naturally paranoid. Any and all suggestions as to the cause and treatment would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I am sure with the holiday this may have gone a little longer than normal. I don't have any advice for you but hopefully someone should be in here to help you out sometime in the near future. Good luck with getting an answer and getting your kitty back to full furred health!

Buddy has "calluses" on his joints where you're describing. They're bald spots where the skin is thicker. I'd compare them to the calluses that dogs (especially labs) get on their joints from lying on hard floors. The vet has seen them, and assured me there is nothing wrong.

Thank you both. That's a relief.

Buddy is not alone - Sadie also has calluses in the same area, and vet confirms they are nothing more than calluses due to my home only having hardwood and slate floors.