How to Stop a Cat from Biting off His Fur

Unlike dogs who scratch with their legs, most cats bite on hair when they're itchy. Your cat is most likely showing signs of allergies or flea infestations.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flea comb
• Topical flea systemic for cats
• Hypoallergenic cat shampoo

1. Comb your cat for fleas. Using a flea comb, work through your cat's fur right to the skin. The flea comb will catch fleas, flea eggs (white) and the red-brown flea deposits (which are flea feces). Look around the belly, under the legs, and around the anus for signs of fleas. Remove them with a spot-on topical systemic flea treatment from your veterinarian that will eliminate fleas on your cat and eventually in the environment.

2. Bathe your cat with a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo. Use a mild, unscented hypoallergenic shampoo made for cats. Bathe your cat in lukewarm water in a sink big enough for him and wear rubber gloves so you can't be scratched easily. Follow the directions on the bottle for bathing. Rinse and dry him thoroughly so he won't catch a chill.

3. Change your cat's food. According to Dr. Carol Osborn, about 10 to 20 percent of cat allergies that manifest themselves in biting and itching have to do with diet. Choose a premium natural cat food compliant with AAFCO (Association of Animal Feed Control Official) guidelines.

4. Stock your home with hypoallergenic options. Your cat may be allergic to something in his environment. That means unplugging all the air fresheners and rewashing his bedding with detergent made for allergy sufferers that is free from dyes and perfumes. Change your cat's litter to one that is unscented. Use natural litter unless your cat is allergic to wheat or corn.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to your veterinarian about products to use for flea infestation and how to create a hypoallergenic diet that may help with your cat's itchiness. Ask your veterinarian to treat your cat for allergies. He may give cortisone injections (usually well tolerated by cats) or antihistamines. Ask your veterinarian or groomer to recommend hypoallergenic cat shampoo.
• Do not use any product made only for a dog on a cat. Cats are more sensitive to chemicals and may get sick or even die due to the toxicity. Hair biting may be a sign of a much more serious condition. If your cat reacts negatively to bathing, consider hiring a professional groomer to bathe your cat.

References

• Cat Owner's Problem Solver; Margaret H. Bonham; 2009
• Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook; Delbert G. Carlson, D.V.M. and James M. Giffin, M.D.; 1995
• My Cat's Licking Her Fur Off

Resources

• KV VET supply
• Dr. Carol's Naturally Healthy Cat