- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Cats groom regularly to stay clean, remove parasites, regulate body temperature, and maintain a healthy coat. But sometimes this normal behavior can turn into a compulsion that causes as many problems as it prevents.
Overgrooming, or excessive grooming, is a common issue in cats and can stem from a wide range of underlying problems, including irritated skin, pain, boredom, or stress. Unfortunately, it can also go unnoticed because cats already spend so much time—up to 50% of their day—grooming themselves. But common signs to look for include obsessively licking, concentrated grooming in one area, bald spots, visible sores, and more hairballs than usual.
To learn more about why cats overgroom, we spoke with Dr. Zac Pilossoph, a veterinarian and consultant at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance.
Allergies
Itchy skin is one of the most common reasons cats overgroom, and it’s often triggered by exposure to allergens in their food or environment. When it comes to food allergies, it’s usually a protein that’s triggering the reaction. In the environment, pet dander, dust mites, grass and weeds, pollen, and mold can all trigger allergies.
Along with overgrooming, an allergic cat may also show other symptoms, such as:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
- Upset stomach (especially with food allergies)
Allergy treatment
Typically, a vet visit is needed to identify and address the underlying issue. “For allergies, there are specialized tests a dermatologist may conduct,” says Dr. Pilossoph. He notes that these tests are not always available at a general veterinary office and may require referral to a specialist.
For food allergies, an elimination diet can help identify triggers. Once the allergen has been confirmed, pet parents can adjust their cat’s diet and discuss any medications or treatments with their vet.
Parasites
Not only can parasites cause an allergic reaction in cats, but they can also bite and burrow into the skin, causing irritation and inflammation. Cats may overgroom in an attempt to remove the parasites and soothe irritated skin. Common cat parasites include:
While more prevalent in outdoor cats, even indoor-only kitties can be impacted by these unwelcome pests.
Parasite treatment
If you suspect parasites are causing your cat’s overgrooming, Dr. Pilossoph recommends seeing a vet for an official diagnosis. Once you know parasites are the culprit, you can take steps to treat your cat and put them on preventatives.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is another issue that can lead to overgrooming. Local climate, poor nutrition, inadequate hydration, allergies, parasites, or other environmental factors can all cause dryness. Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can also change the skin’s balance.
Along with overgrooming, symptoms of dry skin include:
- Frequent scratching
- Hair loss
- Scales or dandruff on the skin and hair
Moisturizing treatment
If your cat’s dry skin is caused by allergies, parasites, or a medical issue, these concerns are best diagnosed and addressed by a veterinarian. If the environment is to blame, at-home solutions include a leave-in cat conditioner or a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Skin Infections
Cats often overgroom because of skin infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites. For instance, ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that not only causes your kitty discomfort but can also easily spread to humans and other pets. Pyoderma, caused by bacteria, is also very common in cats.
Signs of skin infection also include:
- Changes in the skin, including redness or warmth
- Sores and lesions
- Bald patches
- Unusual or strong odors
- Texture changes
In a chicken-and-egg situation, overgrooming from another cause, such as allergies or parasites, can also lead to skin infections, which can then trigger more overgrooming.
Treatment for infections
Skin infections (and their underlying causes) should be assessed and treated by a veterinarian. They might prescribe oral medications like antibiotics and antifungals, and topical medications like creams and shampoos.
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Pain
Excessive grooming in a particular area may indicate that your cat is experiencing pain that is not visible to you. For example:
- A urinary tract infection may cause your cat to excessively groom the genital area
- Anal sac impaction may encourage constant grooming in the perianal area
- Disc disease may cause cats to overgroom certain spots on their backs
For senior cats, arthritis can cause discomfort and overgrooming, too.
Pain treatments
Any indication of pain, especially when prolonged, should be evaluated by a professional. Dr. Pilossoph notes that over-the-counter supplements can help to soothe joint inflammation. Pet ramps and traction rugs can also help cats with mobility issues comfortably access their favorite places in the house.
Stress & Anxiety
For cats, obsessive grooming, also called psychogenic alopecia, is a common response to anxiety and stress. Reasons your cat may be anxious include:
- Health issues
- Genetics
- Household changes (moving, a new work schedule)
- Social stressors (inter-cat conflict, new family member)
- Poor socialization
- Environmental triggers (construction outside, barking neighborhood dogs)
- Past trauma
Treatment for stress
Dr. Pilossoph recommends identifying and addressing the source of your cat’s stress and, if possible, reducing your cat’s exposure to triggers. Creating a quiet space specifically for your cat can also give them a safe place to retreat when they’re feeling stressed.
You may also want to talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medications or supplements to support your cat.
Boredom
When cats don’t have enough mental or physical stimulation to engage their natural instincts, they may overgroom out of stress or simply because they have nothing else better to do.
Other signs that your cat is bored include:
Treatment for boredom
If you think boredom is causing your cat’s excessive grooming, increase their opportunities to play, exercise, and channel their natural hunting instincts. Ensure your cat has access to plenty of enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys, scratching posts, and window perches.
If you work long hours, consider booking a pet sitter to drop in and keep your kitty engaged throughout the day.
Cat Excessive Grooming FAQs
Why is my cat licking himself so much?
Excessive licking is typically a symptom of other behavior or medical issues. As Dr. Pilossoph explains, “Cats can overgroom for numerous reasons. A non-exhaustive list includes external parasites, bacterial skin infections, pain/discomfort, allergic skin disease, and stress/anxiety as a displacement behavior.”
When should I see a vet for overgrooming?
Dr. Pilossoph suggests seeing a vet as soon as possible once you notice that your cat is consistently overgrooming, regardless of what you suspect may be the cause. “The initial steps would be the same: going to the vet to discuss signs and symptoms being seen at home, then working through the diagnostic steps together.”
Your vet will check for common culprits such as parasites or allergies, then look deeper for other ailments. Often, symptoms overlap—signs of boredom can mimic those of medical conditions—so it’s best to rule out any health issues before you address behavioral concerns.
How can I soothe my cat’s itchy skin?
Dr. Pilossoph says a skilled diagnosis from a professional is essential to understanding and addressing your cat’s itchy skin. With that in mind, he also offers general recommendations, such as bathing your cat with an all-natural shampoo and using natural spot-on products from reputable companies.
Full-body onesies and e-collars can also stop your cat from overlicking itchy spots on their body.
Can diet changes help stop a cat from overgrooming?
Making changes to your cat’s diet may help if a food allergy or food-adverse response is causing your cat’s overgrooming, says Dr. Pilossoph. However, he notes that diet changes are not universally effective.
“Overgrooming is not a disease; it is a general symptom of many potential diagnoses,” he explains. As such, the approach to treating overgrooming will vary depending on the cause.
What medication is used for overgrooming cats?
The medication used to treat a cat’s excessive grooming will depend on the underlying cause. Common medications, supplements, and treatments may include:
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Flea and tick treatments, including oral or topical medications and medicated baths
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Anti-anxiety medications and supplements
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Environmental allergy treatments like oral corticosteroids or antihistamines, cyclosporine, and oclacitinib
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Antibiotics for bacterial infections or antifungal treatments for fungal infections
If you notice bald patches, sores, or persistent licking, it’s best to check in with your veterinarian sooner rather than later. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most cats can return to healthy grooming habits—and get back to doing what cats do best: playing, napping, and being your cute, cuddly buddy.
