Cat licking off fur
Noticed bald spots on your cat's body? They might be licking their fur off for various reasons. While it may seem like odd behaviour, there are often clear explanations for why your cat is grooming itself so much. This applies whether the spots are just thinning the fur or have led to complete baldness.
Why bald patches in cats?
What causes bald patches in cats?
Well, in most cases, it's simply because the cat licks itself so much that the fur eventually disappears. It might look like the cat has lost its fur or it's been plucked out. However, this is quite rare. If you're unsure about the cause, ask a vet to check it out. If it turns out that your cat's licking caused the spots, it's helpful to understand why they're behaving this way.
Why does the cat lick its fur?
As strange as it sounds, there are actually several reasons why a cat might lick itself so much that its fur disappears. Often, it's because the cat is experiencing some kind of itch or discomfort, leading them to lick to try and relieve the sensation.
However, excessive licking can also be a sign of pain. This might happen if your cat has pain in their back, urinary tract, or abdomen, and licking could be their way of trying to manage the discomfort. In some rare cases, licking could be due to stress or a tumour.
How do I find out the cause?
The very first step to find out why your cat has these bald patches is to have a vet investigate how they came about. They can tell you if the cat caused them or if something else is to blame. If you're sure it's due to licking, look out for these signs: as we've mentioned, cats often lick to try and soothe discomfort like itching, irritation, or pain.
Reasons for this can be:
Parasite, mite, or fungal infections
Problems with the back, abdomen, or urinary tract
Hypersensitivity and/or allergies
This investigation must be done by a vet, as it's very difficult for you to pinpoint the root cause of excessive fur licking yourself. In other words, if you notice your cat licking more than usual and it's leading to bald patches, always see a vet for an examination!
Can I prevent licking and bald patches?
If your cat is experiencing something that causes intense licking, it might unfortunately be too late for you to prevent it yourself. However, it's always a good idea to check your cat's coat and skin daily. Make sure they look healthy and clean, and address any concerns you have. Diet, weight, and your cat's home environment can also play a role in their overall skin health and well-being.
