Cats often experience excessive itching. Also known as Pruritus, it is a discomforting situation for felines that leads to a strong desire to scratch, lick, or bite. However, according to experts, itching itself is not a disease but a symptom with various possible causes. If you are new to cat parenthood and unsure why your feline baby is experiencing severe itching, don’t worry, as we are here to help. In this blog, we will shed light on everything you need to know about excessive scratching in cats, along with their reasons and prevention. Let’s get started.
Excessive Scratching in Cats
Excessive scratching in cats is a common phenomenon and can be associated with a wide range of causes, from a simple skin irritation to a skin infection. Felines use their nails to repeatedly scratch the same area of their skin, which leads to the release of histamine, a substance that causes inflammation. This leads to further itching. The cycle continues unless the root cause of the itching is addressed.
Common Reasons for Itching
Here are some of the common reasons that lead to itching in cats.
Parasite Infestation
Infestation caused by parasites like fleas, mites, and lice is the most common factor to trigger intense pruritus in cats. Outdoor as well as indoor felines are vulnerable to such infestations. If your cat is sensitive, even a single bite from a flea can lead to severe itching.
Allergies
Cats are often intolerant to certain proteins like chicken or fish. Their consumption generally results in persistent skin itching and irritation in cats.
Besides food allergens, even environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, and household chemicals can severely irritate cats and lead to itching.
There are also times when irritants featured in shampoos, flea collars, bedding, or cleaning products don’t go well with your cats and lead to uncontrolled itching.
Infections
Infections caused by harmful microorganisms often lead to skin infections in cats that further call for excessive itching. This includes bacterial, fungal (like ringworm), and yeast infections.
Boredom, Anxiety, or Compulsive Disorder
Compulsive actions like chewing, scratching, or licking are often experienced by felines who are bored, stressed, or anxious. These disorders are more likely to occur in indoor cats as they tend to receive less exercise and engagement than outdoor cats. Compulsive disorders also take place when there are changes in a cat’s environment, such as the inclusion of a new pet or a baby in the household or a shift to a new location.
Other Causes
Other common causes include:
- Dry skin
- Hormonal or Endocrine disorders
- Cancer or Immune-mediated diseases
- Cancers, such as mast cell tumors
- Inflammatory conditions, such as atopic dermatitis
- Hot spots
- Bug bites
- Substances, such as tree sap, stuck in fur or on skin
How to Address Excessive Scratching in Cats?
Here’s how you can help alleviate severe itching in pets.
Eliminating Parasites
If your cat is itching due to parasite infestations, you must take steps to eliminate them at once. Thankfully, there is a wide range of parasite treatments available on the market that work excellently to address parasite infestation in cats. They come in different forms, including topical formulas, oral tablets, collars, etc. You may seek your vet’s advice to determine the treatment that’s appropriate for your feline baby.
Changing Foods
If your kitty is chewing or scratching excessively, putting it on an exclusion diet for up to 12 weeks can help you determine if food allergies are the root cause. In the process, you may have to try several diets before actually finding the one that works for your furry companion. You may also add certain fatty acids or other nutritional supplements if dry skin is the reason behind the skin irritation. Do not offer any other foods or treats during the exclusion diet trial.
Administering Treatments
If your cat’s scratching is getting out of hand, it is important to seek medical help. Depending on the extent of skin damage that has occurred due to licking, chewing, and scratching, the vet may prescribe treatments, which generally include steroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics. And if the behavior is caused by psychological factors, anti-anxiety treatments can help address the issue.
Addressing Anxiety and Boredom
If there is no physical cause behind your cat’s itching, there are various ways to improve its state of mind. The first step can be to make your feline baby feel loved and comfortable in your home. You can then provide adequate stimulation in the form of exercise. On many occasions, boredom licking can be addressed by adding another pet to the household. However, do consult a veterinarian before doing so, as it might also have repercussions.
Bottom Line
Through scratching in cats is a common phenomenon, it should never be ignored, as it can be caused by underlying issues like parasite infestations, allergies, or stress and anxiety. As a pet parent, you must determine the real reasons behind the scratching and respond with compassion and appropriate care so as to ensure your feline baby’s health and the serenity of your home.
At CanadaVetExpress, we carry a wide range of treatments for cats designed to subside excessive itching. Check out our online pet supplies store to get your hands on your preferred treatments and other pet health products at the best prices from the comfort of your home.
