Introduction: What is over-grooming and why is it a problem?
Cats are elegant and independent creatures that are famous for their cleanliness. For them, grooming is an important ritual that helps reduce stress and ensure comfort. However, when this habit crosses the line and becomes obsessive, it becomes a problem. Excessive grooming is a condition where a cat spends too much time licking its fur, which can lead to skin injuries, shedding, and even serious psychological problems.
Although this behavior may not seem dangerous at first glance, it can actually be a signal of physical or emotional problems in your pet. Too frequent licking of a cat is not only harmful to health, but also becomes a source of suffering for the cat itself. If you do not pay attention to such behavior in time, it can lead to complications that will require serious treatment.
Causes of Excessive Grooming: From Stress to Medical Conditions
There are many reasons why cats begin to lick themselves excessively. The most common among them is stress. A change of environment, a move, the appearance of new people or animals in the house, even a change of furniture or noise can become a source of anxiety for your pet. In such situations, grooming turns into a way to soothe oneself, something like the human habit of biting nails.
Medical reasons also play an important role. Allergies to food, pollen, insect bites, or certain materials can cause itchy and irritated skin, causing the cat to constantly lick itself in an attempt to reduce discomfort. This also includes fungal infections and bacterial diseases that cause inflammation on the skin.
Sometimes the cause can be hormonal disorders, for example, hyperthyroidism, when the cat’s metabolism works too actively. Or psychological factors come to the fore: anxiety, boredom or even depression. A cat that doesn’t get enough attention or stimulation may start licking itself simply because of a lack of other activities.
Signs of a problem: How to understand that grooming is becoming dangerous
Recognizing excessive grooming is quite simple if you know what to look for. One of the first signs is hair loss. You may notice bald spots, especially in places where the cat often reaches with its tongue – on the belly, paws, sides or tail.
Another signal is redness or irritation of the skin. A cat constantly licks itself, licks the same place, can injure the skin, causing inflammation or even the formation of wounds. Pay attention to whether small spots of blood or excessive dryness appear on the affected areas.
In addition, a change in your Pet’s behavior is also an important indicator. If the cat becomes too nervous, irritable or, on the contrary, lethargic, this may be the result of anxiety or physical discomfort caused by constant grooming. Some cats may even avoid human contact, which is unusual for most pets.
Also pay attention to behavior during grooming. If your cat seems too focused or spends too much time grooming one area, it’s definitely a sign that something is wrong.
The earlier you notice these signs, the sooner you can help your pet, avoiding serious health problems.
Effects on cat health: Consequences for physical and emotional state
Excessive grooming can seriously damage both your cat’s physical and psychological health. Physically, this leads to skin irritation, bald spots, and infections. Constant trauma to the skin due to licking creates ideal conditions for the development of bacterial or fungal infections. In addition, the hair that a cat ingests during grooming accumulates in the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause hairballs, blockages or even serious digestive problems.
Emotionally, cats who suffer from excessive grooming fall into a vicious circle. Stress or anxiety prompts them to lick, but this does not bring relief, it only increases tension. As a result, the animal may become lethargic, lose interest in playing or interacting with people. Constant discomfort can even lead to aggressive behavior.
How to help a cat: Methods of solving the problem
If you notice that your cat is licking itself excessively, the first and most important step is to consult a veterinarian. The doctor will help rule out possible medical causes, such as allergies, parasites or fungal infections, and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
After that, it is important to deal with possible psychological reasons. Here are some recommendations:
- Provide a calm environment. Cats are very sensitive to change. If something has changed in your home recently, try to restore stability and comfort.
- Add activities. Toys, games, special scratching posts or climbing shelves can help distract the cat from obsessive grooming.
- Use sedatives. Some cats respond positively to pheromones or calming supplements that can be recommended at the veterinary clinic.
- Regular grooming in a professional salon. If the cat feels discomfort due to tangled fur or shedding, regular grooming will help to avoid this and reduce the need for self-licking.
Prevention: How to prevent excessive grooming in cats
To avoid problems with excessive grooming in the future, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- Regular examination of the skin and coat. Catching problems early, such as irritation or parasites, will help prevent the development of an over-grooming habit.
- A balanced diet. Food rich in vitamins and omega-3 improves coat and skin condition.
- Creating a stable environment. Minimizing stressful situations has a positive effect on the general condition of the cat.
- Professional care. Combing and bathing in a professional grooming salon help maintain the health of the coat and skin.
Grooming at V.O.G DOG SALON
If your cat is prone to over-grooming, regular professional cat grooming can make a big difference. At V.O.G DOG SALON in cat grooming salons in Kyiv, we understand the needs of every beloved cat or kitty. Our groomers are experienced in working with cats that require a special approach and offer procedures to maintain the ideal condition of the coat and skin.
Regular brushing, bathing and skin care will reduce the discomfort that can provoke a cat to constantly lick. Thanks to this, your Pet will feel well-groomed, comfortable and happy, and you will be able to enjoy its beautiful appearance.
Visit V.O.G DOG SALON and make sure that your cat receives the best care from real professionals! ❤️
