Symptoms, Causes & Natural Remedies

Stress licking, also known as over-grooming, is a common behavioral issue in cats that can be caused by several factors. It is essential to identify the underlying cause of stress licking to prevent it from becoming a severe health issue. In this guide, we’ll discuss natural treatments for helping stress licking in cats at home. 

Symptoms of Stress Licking in Cats

The following are some of the most common symptoms of stress licking in cats:

• Excessive grooming: One of the most apparent signs of stress licking in cats is excessive grooming. The cat will lick and groom itself for long periods of time, often leading to bald spots and irritated red and inflamed skin.
• Skin irritation: As a result of excessive grooming, cats may develop skin irritation, which can cause itching, scratching, and pain.
• Hairballs: Cats that engage in stress licking are more likely to develop hairballs due to the ingestion of excessive hair during grooming.
• Behavioral changes: Cats may exhibit behavioral changes such as hiding, aggression, or depression when they are experiencing stress.
• Loss of appetite: In some cases, cats may lose their appetite due to stress, leading to weight loss.

Causes of Stress Licking in Cats

There are several causes of stress licking in cats, including:

• Anxiety: Cats can experience anxiety due to several reasons, such as changes in their environment, the introduction of a new pet or family member, or loud noises.
• Medical issues: Certain medical conditions such as skin allergies, parasites, or infections can cause itching and discomfort, leading to excessive grooming.
• Boredom: Cats that do not have enough stimulation in their environment may engage in excessive grooming as a way to relieve boredom.
• Trauma: Trauma or a significant life event, such as the loss of a family member or moving to a new home, can cause stress in cats that can lead to stress licking.

Natural Treatments for Stress Licking in Cats

The following are some natural treatments that can help manage stress licking in cats:

1. Increase environmental stimulation: Providing cats with plenty of toys, environmental enrichment, and interactive playtime can help reduce stress and boredom.
2. Use natural calming formulas or pheromone sprays: Feline Essential Cat Calm is an herbal supplement formula that can help reduce stress and anxiety in cats. Some cats also respond well to pheromone sprays or flower essences. 
3. Provide a calm and safe space: Creating a designated safe space for your cat, such as a cozy bed or hiding place, can help reduce stress and anxiety. Find out where your cat feels safest and enrich that area for them. 
4. Change the diet: Feeding cats a high-quality, moisture rich diet with added supplements such as CATalyst & omega-3 fatty acids can help improve their skin health and reduce inflammation, itching and discomfort.
5. Consult with a veterinarian: In rare cases, medical intervention may be necessary to manage stress licking in cats.

Conclusion:

Stress licking in cats can be a challenging issue to manage, but it is essential to identify the underlying cause and address it promptly. By providing your cat with a safe and stimulating environment, using natural remedies, and a healthy diet, you can help manage stress licking and improve your cat’s overall health and wellbeing.