Why Is My Cat So Itchy? Here’s What You Need to Know

Do you find yourself wondering, “Why is my cat so itchy?” Maybe they’re scratching nonstop, licking their belly until it’s bald, or shaking their head more than usual. While the occasional scratch is probably nothing to worry about, persistent itching is a red flag. As their guardians, it’s our responsibility to help them feel comfortable again.

Experts say major causes of itching in cats include:

Fleas

Fleas are just one of many reasons to keep cats indoors. But even cats kept safely indoors can occasionally get fleas, and just one flea bite can trigger a major reaction.

• Cats with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) react to proteins in flea saliva, which leads to extreme itching, especially around the tail, neck, and thighs.
• You may notice scabs, hair loss, or tiny black specks (flea dirt) in their coat.
• Use a veterinary-approved flea treatment year-round—even indoors. *Note: Never use flea products intended for dogs on cats. Some, such as permethrin, are extremely toxic to cats.
• Wash bedding, vacuum carpets, and brush cats regularly to check for fleas.

Other Parasites

Parasites other than fleas can cause cats to itch.

• Mange, which is caused by microscopic mites who live on or burrow into the skin of otherwise healthy animals, causes intense itching.
• Ear mites are common, especially for kittens or cats who go outdoors. Symptoms include dark discharge from the ears, head shaking, or scratching at the ears.
• Lice in cats spread infections. Symptoms include scratching, biting, restlessness, and hair loss. You may be able to see lice with the naked eye.

Your veterinarian can identify parasites with skin scrapings or ear swabs and prescribe any necessary treatments.

Don’t try over-the-counter mite treatments without veterinary guidance; many are unsafe for cats, especially kittens.

Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)

Just like humans, cats can be allergic to things in their environment. Cats suffering from environmental allergies often groom excessively, so what may look like over cleanliness could be a sign of distress.

• Dust mites, mold, pollen, grass, or even perfume and cleaning products can trigger itchiness.
• Symptoms might include hair loss, crusts, scabs, irritated skin, ear infections, and lesions on the groin, hind limbs, lips, or skin.
• Bathing can be tricky with cats, but wiping their paws and fur can help reduce allergens.
• Allergy testing and immunotherapy may provide long-term relief.

Contact Allergies

Though rare, cats can develop contact allergies if they come into contact with an allergen.

• Cleaning products, laundry detergent, new bedding, carpets, or flea collars can cause localized itching.
• You may see redness, swelling, or irritation on contact points like the belly or paws.
• The fix is simple. Remove the suspected irritant.

Food Allergies

Food allergies develop after repeated exposure, and a cat can become allergic to an ingredient they’ve eaten for years without prior problems. There’s no cure for food allergies, so once you determine the culprit, it’s all about lifelong avoidance.

• Common allergens include animal proteins such as chicken and cow flesh, as well as dairy.
• Symptoms often include itchy skin, ear infections, and excessive grooming, especially around the face, belly, legs, or paws.
• If your veterinarian suspects a food allergy, they may recommend a limited-ingredient or vegan cat food and an elimination trial to identify the trigger.

Skin Infections

Secondary bacterial or fungal infections can result from all that scratching and licking.

• Red patches, oozing sores, or a foul odor are telltale signs of infection.
• Yeast infections may appear in moist areas like the ears or skin folds.
• Your veterinarian may prescribe medicated shampoos, antifungal creams, or antibiotics.
•  It is important to determine the underlying cause to prevent recurrence.

Stress and Boredom

Sometimes the cause of itching in cats isn’t physical—it’s emotional. A cat who’s “itching” emotionally is hurting just as much as one suffering from physical causes. Their comfort matters, too.

• Cats may overgroom or lick themselves bald due to stress, anxiety, or lack of stimulation.
• Changes in routine, additions to the family such as a new baby or animal companion, or boredom can lead to compulsive behaviors.
• Enrich your cat’s environment with toys, climbing structures, window perches, and daily interactive play.
• Calming pheromones such as Feliway can help.

Breed Dispositions

Some cat breeds are more prone to skin sensitivities and allergies because of their genetics.

• Sphynx cats have hairless bodies and are susceptible to skin infections.
• Persians and Himalayans may be prone to fungal skin infections and eye discharge, which can cause itchiness around the face.

This is yet another reason not to buy animals, especially if they’re advertised as “purebred.” Please never support an industry that prioritizes profit over cats’ health and well-being and fuels the animal overpopulation crisis. If you are emotionally and financially able to provide a lifelong, responsible, loving home, adopt, never shop. For those who have their heart set on a specific “breed,” Petfinder is an excellent resource.

How to Help Cats “Scratch That Itch”

• Prevention is key. Use veterinary-approved parasite prevention year-round, feed a high-quality diet to reduce the risk of food allergies, and maintain a low-stress environment with quiet spaces, enrichment, and lots of affection.
• Use air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens and keep litter boxes and bedding areas clean and dust-free.
• Avoid essential oils and harsh chemicals that can trigger allergies in cats.
• Always keep cats indoors. Cats who spend time outdoors are at risk of coming into contact with allergens, parasites, and getting sick, and if unsupervised, they are also in danger of being hit by cars and being harmed by cruel people.
• Talk to your veterinarian or a veterinary allergy specialist. They can determine if your cat needs allergy medications and the best treatment options.

Cats depend on their guardians to keep them healthy and comfortable. With care, patience, and guidance from a trusted veterinarian, you can make sure your cat remains comfortable through all of life’s annoying little itches.

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