Whether or not you should stop your cat from licking herself depends on why she's doing it. Normal grooming is healthy and necessary, but excessive licking can indicate an underlying problem.
Normal Cat Grooming: A Good Thing
Cats are naturally fastidious groomers. Licking helps them:
- Keep clean: Removing dirt, debris, and loose fur.
- Distribute natural oils: Promoting a healthy coat and skin.
- Cool down: Through evaporative cooling.
- Bond with other cats (and you!): Social grooming is a sign of affection.
- Relax: Grooming can be a calming activity.
In these cases, you generally shouldn't interfere. Let your cat do what comes naturally.
When Licking Becomes a Problem: Overgrooming
Excessive licking, also known as overgrooming, is when a cat licks themselves so much that it leads to:
- Hair loss (alopecia): Noticeable bald spots or thinning fur.
- Skin irritation: Redness, inflammation, or open sores.
- Changes in behavior: Increased licking frequency or intensity.
If you observe these signs, it's crucial to investigate the cause. Potential reasons for overgrooming include:
Medical Issues
- Parasites: Fleas, ticks, or mites can cause intense itching.
- Allergies: Food or environmental allergies can lead to skin irritation and licking.
- Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause discomfort.
- Pain: Underlying pain, especially arthritis, can cause a cat to lick the affected area in an attempt to soothe it.
Psychological Issues
- Stress and Anxiety: Changes in environment, new pets, or loud noises can trigger anxiety that manifests as overgrooming.
- Boredom: Lack of stimulation can lead to repetitive behaviors like excessive licking.
- Separation anxiety: Some cats get anxious when left alone and will groom excessively.
What to Do If You Suspect Overgrooming
- Consult Your Veterinarian: This is the most important step. Your vet can rule out medical causes and recommend appropriate treatment. Be prepared to discuss your cat’s history and any recent changes in their environment or routine.
- Flea Prevention: Even if you don't see fleas, consistent flea prevention is vital, especially for cats who go outdoors.
- Environmental Enrichment: Provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, and climbing opportunities to reduce boredom and stress.
- Address Anxiety: If anxiety is suspected, your vet may recommend pheromone diffusers, calming supplements, or even prescription medication. Create a safe and predictable environment for your cat.
- Consider Dietary Changes: If allergies are suspected, your vet may recommend an elimination diet to identify the trigger.
- Distraction: If you see your cat starting to overgroom, try distracting them with a toy or a gentle petting session. This won't solve the underlying problem, but it can provide temporary relief. Do not punish your cat for grooming.
Table: When to Discourage Licking
| Situation | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| Normal grooming | Allow it |
| Excessive licking (overgrooming) | Consult a veterinarian; address potential medical or psychological causes |
| After surgical procedure | Use an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent licking and infection until cleared by vet |
Conclusion
Stopping your cat from licking herself is a nuanced decision. If it's normal grooming, let her be. If it's excessive, focus on identifying and addressing the underlying cause with the help of your veterinarian. Addressing the reason for the licking, rather than just stopping the behavior itself, is key to your cat's health and well-being.
