Grooming is a natural part of a cat’s daily routine. Most cats spend much time licking and cleaning themselves to stay tidy. However, when grooming becomes obsessive or leads to bald patches, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the reasons behind excessive grooming in cats, highlight key signs to look out for, and share practical tips to help your cat stay comfortable and healthy.
What Is Excessive Grooming?
Excessive grooming, or overgrooming, occurs when cats lick, bite, or scratch themselves more than usual. It can lead to hair loss, skin irritation, and even open wounds. Unlike regular grooming, overgrooming can harm and often point to an underlying issue.
Common Causes of Excessive Grooming in Cats
1. Fleas or Parasites
Fleas, mites, and other parasites are among the most common reasons for overgrooming. Just one flea bite can lead to severe itching, particularly in cats allergic to flea saliva.
2. Skin Allergies
Cats can develop allergies to certain foods, dust, pollen, or cleaning products. These allergies often lead to itchy skin, prompting the cat to groom excessively for relief.
3. Stress or Anxiety
Cats may groom excessively as a coping mechanism for stress. Changes in the environment, such as a new pet, a move, or loud noises, can trigger anxiety, so grooming becomes a way to self-soothe.
4. Boredom
Indoor cats that lack mental and physical stimulation may overgroom simply because they’re bored. Without toys or interaction, grooming can become a repetitive habit.
5. Pain or Discomfort
Sometimes, excessive licking occurs near a specific body part where the cat is feeling pain, such as joints or the abdomen. This could be due to arthritis, an injury, or internal discomfort.
6. Medical Conditions
Hormonal imbalances, infections, or other medical issues like hyperthyroidism can also result in overgrooming. A veterinarian should rule these out with a proper exam.
Signs Your Cat Is Overgrooming
- Bald patches or thinning fur
- Red, irritated, or broken skin
- Scabs or sores, especially on the belly, inner thighs, or back
- Constant licking or biting at one area
- Hairballs are appearing more frequently
How to Help a Cat That’s Overgrooming
1. Visit the Vet
Always start with a veterinary visit to rule out parasites, allergies, or medical issues. Your vet may recommend skin tests, blood work, or diet changes.
2. Flea Control
Even if you don’t see fleas, it’s important to use regular flea prevention products. Some fleas are hard to detect and can still cause allergic reactions.
3. Reduce Stress
Work on recognizing and removing anything in your cat’s environment that may be causing stress. Provide safe hiding spots, use calming diffusers like Feliway, and keep a routine your cat can rely on.
4. Increase Enrichment
Offer toys, scratching posts, puzzle feeders, and climbing trees to keep your cat physically and mentally active.
5. Use a Cone or Recovery Suit (if needed)
If your cat is damaging their skin, your vet may recommend a protective cone or recovery suit to allow healing while you address the root cause.
Final Thoughts
Overgrooming in cats is more than just a quirky habit—it’s often a sign that your cat is physically or emotionally uncomfortable. Identifying the cause early and providing the proper care can help your pet return to their happy, healthy self.
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