It’s normal for cats to clean themselves. Grooming removes loose fur, dirt, and tiny bugs. Many cats spend about half of their awake time doing this.

But if your cat licks, bites, chews, or scratches the same spot a lot—or you see bald patches or red skin—that’s too much grooming.

Why Is My Cat Overgrooming?

If your cat is licking fur off or spends most of the day grooming, something is wrong. The first step is to see your vet to find the cause and keep your cat comfortable.

What counts as “too much”?

• Bald spots, thinning fur, or broken hairs

• Red skin, scabs, or sores

• One area licked again and again (belly, legs, tail base, inside thighs)

Common causes

• Fleas or mites – even one flea can make some cats very itchy.

• Skin infection – bacterial or fungal (like ringworm).

• Allergies – to fleas, food, or things in the home (dust, pollen).

• Pain – arthritis, joint strain, or a sore spot; cats lick where it hurts.

• Stress or boredom – grooming to self-soothe (new pet, move, loud home).

• Hair mats/tangles – pulling at knots.

• Other illness – thyroid issues, urinary discomfort (belly licking), etc.

What your vet may do

• Check skin, comb for fleas/mites, skin scrapings or culture

• Treat infections or parasites

• Pain check and pain relief if needed

• Allergy plan (flea control, diet trial, meds if appropriate)

What you can do at home

• Flea control: use a vet-approved product on time, every time.

• Brush gently each day; trim small knots (never cut tight mats—ask a groomer).

• Reduce stress: quiet hiding spots, high perches, steady routine.

• Play 10–15 minutes daily for mental and physical exercise.

• Litter, food, water: keep all clean and easy to reach.

• Pheromone diffuser (optional) to help them relax.

• Don’t punish or use human creams—this can make things worse.

When to see the vet urgently

• Rapid hair loss, bleeding, open sores, or pus

• Not eating, low energy, vomiting/diarrhea

• Peeing outside the box or straining

• Sudden change in behavior or pain signs