Many cat owners notice their cat licking or biting itself excessively, causing redness in the skin or even bald patches. At Kattenhoek, we understand that this can be concerning. Excessive licking or biting is often a sign that something is wrong: physical, emotional, or environmental factors can all play a role. By understanding the behavior, you can intervene more quickly and help your cat feel better.
Causes of redness, licking and biting
The behavior can have several causes. Some common reasons include:
- Allergies: Cats can react to food, fleas, pollen or dust, causing itching and irritation.
- Parasites: Fleas, ticks or mites can trigger excessive licking and biting.
- Skin infections or fungi: Bacterial infections or ringworm can cause itching and skin damage.
- Stress or boredom: Cats that feel anxious, insecure or bored sometimes develop a behavioral problem such as excessive grooming.
- Pain or discomfort: Sore spots or internal problems can cause the cat to continuously lick or bite a specific area.
How do you respond as an owner?
Observe your cat closely to determine the cause of the behavior. Check for parasites, skin damage, or other visible symptoms. If in doubt, always consult a veterinarian to rule out medical causes. For stress-related licking, it can help to make the environment calmer, increase playtime, and offer enrichment, such as scratching posts , interactive toys , or elevated resting areas . More tips on cat well-being can be found on our Cat Corner training page .
Practical care tips
Some tips to reduce excessive licking or biting and keep your cat's skin healthy include:
- Check regularly for fleas, ticks and other skin problems.
- Provide a balanced diet and consider hypoallergenic food if you have allergies.
- Provide ample playtime, mental stimulation, and safe rest areas.
- If necessary, use protective equipment such as a cat collar to allow wounds to heal.
- Observe changes in behavior and note any stressors or triggers.
Conclusion
Excessive licking and biting can lead to redness and bald patches, and often has multiple causes. With proper care, observation, and possibly medical guidance, you can help your cat feel comfortable and healthy. At Kattenhoek, we're ready to provide advice, tips, and products to optimally support your cat with skin and behavioral problems.
