cat licking hair off his legs
Written by consuela36
Our 12-year old male DSH is constantly licking his front legs and belly area, to the extent that there is very little hair left in these areas. He has been doing this for several months, but appears happy and healthy otherwise. I am hoping someone can help us help "George" so that he can be relieved of whatever it is that's stressing him. He gets a lot of love and attention, and has been with us since his adoption when he was a tiny kitten.
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Marcie,
Thank you so much for a caring and informative response. I have just made a doc. appointment for George and am on my way to Petsmart for some "goodies" for him. I do appreciate your suggestions.
Thanks You , is their any meds or vream for the cat lickimg hair off legs & tummy?? thanks Carol
csdaet41@yahoo.com
Carol, the excessive grooming cats do by licking the hair of the legs and abdomen is usually behavioral so probably a topical cream will not help. The best bet is to try and find the source of the anxiety that can trigger the over grooming. It can be a change in the household such as a new pet or a move or something in the enviroment such as fleas.
There are some antianxiety medications available for cats but they are usually used when other attempts to curb the behavior (by reducing stress) have not worked.
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Consuela, this kind of behavior is usually a response to a stress or anxiety of some sort. At 12 years of age a good place to start your investigation would be a trip to the vet to rule out an underlying medical problem. Common problems of aging cats include Hyperthyroidism and kidney disease. The vet may suggest bloodwork which will give you information on what's going on on the inside.
If all checks out well physically, then try taking a look at everything else in George's world. Sometimes even small changes like a different brand of litter can cause a cat to start a different behavior. Have there been any changes in the animals or people who live in the house? Anything going on in the way of construction inside or out that may be stressful? New carpet, furniture, paint, anything like that? A new cat in the neighborhood can sometimes upset the harmony, even if George does not go out, he may see another cat or dog from his perch.
Try treating George to some new toys or a condo that may keep his interest for a while and distract him from over grooming. If you can spend some extra time brushing and playing with him, it may help busy his day. Increasing his exercise can help reduce any anxiety he may be having. I hope this helps, good luck!
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