All cats have the odd scratch and will groom themselves regularly, but sometimes this becomes excessive. Itchy skin is a very common problem in cats, and one that can make them feel pretty rotten. If this is the case for your cat, and you’re asking, “why is my cat constantly itching and licking at themselves?”, then here’s what you need to know.

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How much itching is normal for a cat?

The medical term for itching is pruritus. It is a symptom of many possible conditions, rather than being a diagnosis itself. All cats will have the odd scratch, so how can you tell if your cat has itchy skin? 

Well, the symptoms of itchy skin in cats include:

  • Overgrooming or scratching more than usual
  • Red, angry looking skin or a rash
  • Bald patches or areas of hair loss (alopecia)
  • Scabs or little bumps over the body 
  • Wounds (self-inflicted from their claws)
  • Saliva staining on the fur
  • Dark, thickened skin or changes in fur colour 
  • Moist, red plaques of thickened skin (Eosinophilic granuloma complex, or EGC)

Bald patches in cats are almost always due to excessive grooming. Remember, since cats are secretive creatures, you may not actually see your cat grooming excessively: your cat may only do this in private! If you notice any of these symptoms, then it’s important to contact a vet as soon as possible. Afterall, itchy, painful skin is very unpleasant for your kitty!

What causes itchy skin in cats?

Remember, itchy skin is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Common causes of itchy skin in cats include:

  • Parasites (fleas, ticks and mites)
  • Infections (bacterial or fungal)
  • Allergies: allergies to insect bites (especially fleas), food allergies, or atopy (allergy to things in the environment such as pollen, dust or dust mites)

Other conditions such as immune-mediated skin disease are possible, but less common in cats.

Diagnosis of itchy skin in cats

Only a vet can diagnose the cause of your cat’s itchy skin. Diagnosing skin complaints can be a lengthy process, since there are many possible causes. To confuse matters further, any non-itchy skin condition can weaken the skin’s defences, meaning that a secondary bacterial or fungal skin infection can occur, which is then itchy. 

Your vet will start by asking you questions and examining your cat. Following this, they may trial some treatment, especially if they suspect fleas or mites. If there is a secondary bacterial or fungal infection, they may treat this before deciding if any further tests are necessary. 

Further tests could include:

  • Skin scrapes: this involves using a scalpel blade to gently scrape off the surface layer of skin, which is then placed on a microscope slide to be examined. This looks for mites, infection and at the cells present.
  • Swabs: to look for bacteria or fungus, and to see which antibiotics or antifungals will work best (culture and sensitivity).
  • Diet trials: to see if food allergy is the cause.
  • Skin biopsies under a general anaesthetic, looking at the skin cells and for infection.
  • Blood tests: to check overall health and for allergy testing.
  • Intradermal testing: injecting tiny amounts of various allergens into the skin, to look for a reaction.

The process of diagnosis requires patience and trust between you and your vet. Sometimes a diagnosis cannot be made, and it becomes necessary to treat the symptoms. Sometimes it may be necessary for your vet to refer you to a veterinary dermatologist (a specialist).

What can I give my cat for excessive itching?

Common things are common! If your cat starts itching or overgrooming, it’s a good idea to make sure that they are up to date with parasite (fleas and mites) control, even if you can’t see any fleas. Cats are fastidious groomers and often groom fleas and flea dirt away regularly, meaning you may not notice them. It’s best to use a veterinary recommended product, to be sure it’s effective.

If they are up to date with their parasite control, then it’s important to see your vet for a diagnosis. There may be things you can do at home to help, such as adding EFAs (essential fatty acids) to their diet or using soothing shampoos. However, these will depend on the cause and will not work on their own, so it’s important that you see your vet before trying anything at home.

Take home message?

Itchy skin is a common condition in cats, and can make them feel pretty miserable. Make sure your cat is up to date with their parasite prevention, using a veterinary recommended product. If you notice your cat scratching or grooming more than usual, or any problems with their skin, the sooner you take them to your vet the better. Skin complaints are usually easier to treat and diagnose when they are caught early.

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