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Excessive Grooming
In Cats
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Excessive grooming
in cats is something that may seem harmless at first
but in fact is very bad for the cat. It is a stress-related
condition that is a little like self-mutilation or
obsessive-compulsive disorder in humans.
It can result in physical problems such as skin disorders
but primarily it is a sign that the cat needs help
and you should talk to your vet right away to see
what can be done for your pet.
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As you might expect, over-grooming usually starts with
a stressful event, which is often a big change in your life
too. This may be something like a new pet in the household,
a move, a new baby, or something that means that you are
around a lot less than you used to be. Normal
grooming is pleasant and relaxing for the cat, like
a massage. So when they feel stressed about anything, cats
will tend to perform this activity to excess, constantly
licking or pulling out fur, resulting in bald patches on
the legs.
Sometimes over-grooming is not caused by stress but by
skin irritations, allergies, ringworm
or parasites such as fleas and mites. Either way, you should
see your vet right away because either the physical cause
or the stress will need to be treated. The longer the habit
of over-grooming continues, the harder it will be for the
cat to stop. Also, the constant licking at fur is very likely
to cause hairballs in the cat's stomach which can interfere
with digestion and cause discomfort for the cat.
If your cat's constant grooming is caused by stress, there
are several things that you can do to help your pet get
over it. You may be able to make changes in the house or
in your life that will put things back to normal for your
cat. Spending more time with the cat will help him adjust
to most of the major changes that may have happened. When
you see him licking and biting at his fur, don't scold him
but stroke him or talk gently to him.
Playing with the cat and encouraging him to take an interest
in toys instead of in his own coat can help too. Take him
with you when you go someplace if you can. If you have to
leave him in the house when you are not home, think about
leaving a cat video playing, put him in a room where he
can easily watch out the window, or get a fish tank to keep
him entertained.
Your veterinarian
may also recommend medications to help relieve your cat's
stress and help him get over the constant grooming. It is
possible to get anti-depressants and anti-anxiety meds for
pets and a course of these will help your cat to break his
self-destructive habit. Excessive grooming in cats should
not be ignored so do not hesitate about seeking treatment
for your pet.
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Cat Health Cat Care
