Compulsive Grooming
Cat love to meticulously groom themselves but sometimes this behavior can become?excessive for several reasons. The licking, scratching, or chewing can develop into a compulsive and self-mutilating behavior called ?psychogenic alopecia? that can become damaging to your pet?s coat and skin. When your cat develops a compulsive grooming behavior you can usually catch it most of the time. Some of the telltale signs are your cat?s fur is thinning out in some areas and it may have hairless patches in areas it can easily reach. Hot spots can be created in various parts of its body which may look irritated and red.
This compulsive behavior can develop in all cats but are most apparent in Oriental breeds such as the Siamese. Female cats are also more likely to have this condition compared to males.
Likely Reasons for Compulsive Grooming
Your cat has dry skin ? Usually, dry air can cause dry skin during winter months. Another cause for dry skin is nutritional deficiencies. Having dry or flaky skin can make your cat feel very uncomfortable. It may scratch and lick to relieve the dryness.
Your cat is bored or anxious ? These types of mental disorders affect cats that are mostly confined indoors. Cats need mental stimulation and exercise to keep them entertained and if they don?t get those, they may compulsively groom to keep themselves occupied. Compulsive grooming disorders can also manifest if the cat is stressed. Causes for stress may be environmental changes such as moving to a new home, the introduction of a new pet or baby, and the like.
Fleas and other external parasites ? fleas can irritate the skin and make it itchy, which can make your cat want to scratch on the infected area. Cat groomers can remove traces of fleas. If you catch your cat in the act of licking a specific spot on its body while leaving other areas untouched, this can be a sign that the particular area is infected with fleas. Other parasites to look out for are mites and ticks which can also cause your cat to obsessively chew, lick, or scratch itself.
Allergic reactions ? just like humans, your cat may be susceptible to allergies. More often than not, these cause skin irritation. Allergies can be caused by the environment, food, and such. These can trigger itchy skin which can make them obsess.
Pain ? pain can also prompt your cat to bite or lick the affected area. They can do this over and over until it gets further irritated.
To combat compulsive grooming, rule out the cause. Some of the medical problems that cause compulsive grooming can be determined and addressed by your veterinarian. Also, keep your cat stress-free and away from allergens, and stick to the daily routine.
Photo: http://i1064.photobucket.com/albums/u370/anita-ann/IMG_2170-1.jpg
To view this article in spanish, click here: http://www.petsintouch.com/pnnespanol/13205/acicalado-compulsivo-en-los-gatos
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