Cats have earned their reputation as great groomers, by meticulously licking themselves clean. We expect to see a rough little tongue lapping rhythmically, as our kitty appears relaxed and self-absorbed in this habitual task. But when does good grooming become too much grooming?
Compulsive licking, biting and scratching could mean a problem for your pet that requires intervention. Be on the lookout for excessive biting and scratching to the point of irritation, or gagging on hairballs. If you notice strips or patches of baldness, and bare skin that appears red or sore, these are also signs that should concern you enough to take a closer look. Behavior like this could stem from a medical problem. Here are some of the most common causes of excessive scratching in cats, and ways to help them find relief.
Parasites
Annoying fleas may be the reason behind your cat’s ongoing scratching and licking and biting obsession. If you see your cat constantly licking its lower back, it could be caused by any number of problems, including fleas, ticks, mites and ringworm. Sometimes you can’t even see them in your pet’s fur so they’re hard to detect, but many veterinarians recommend trying good quality flea control products, to see if that helps alleviate the scratching.
A word of caution: always be sure the flea control product you select is made specifically for cats. Many of the products made for dogs contain pyrethrin, which is a pesticide that is extremely toxic to cats.
Allergies
Just like people can have allergic reactions to food and environmental factors, so can cats. Those allergies can present as skin irritations that are sore, itchy, or both. Look for patches of hair loss or scabs on your pet’s face or neck. The most common food allergies in cats are beef, fish or grains like corn or wheat. Your veterinarian can prescribe a hypoallergenic food that may help to resolve the issues, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and immune-supressive drugs.
Cats can also have a reaction to airborne allergies such as dust, mold or pollen. The condition is called atopy. It’s often seasonal, and is the most common allergic problem in both cats and dogs. Besides trying to avoid your pet’s exposure to the allergens, consult your veterinarian for treatment options.
Psychological issues
Chewing, scratching and biting of the skin can be seen in cats who are bored, stressed or anxious. Mental disorders are more common in indoor cats, as they typically get less exercise and excitement than outdoor cats. Other environmental factors can affect a cat’s mood and behavior, including moving to a new home, the arrival of a new baby, or another animal sharing its space. In this situation, your veterinarian many prescribe an anti-anxiety medication.
Except for meowing, cats can’t really tell us what’s bothering them and why they might feel itchiness or pain. The key to helping your pet is to determine the underlying cause of all the scratching and licking, and be prepared to try several solutions.