Why Is My Cat Overgrooming and Losing Fur?

What overgrooming looks like

Normal cats spend a lot of time grooming, but overgrooming crosses into excessive licking, chewing, or barbering that thins the coat or creates bald strips — often on the belly, inner legs, or back. You may also find more hairballs. Overgrooming is a symptom, not a diagnosis, so the goal is to find the underlying itch, pain, or stress driving it. Because cats often groom in private, thinning fur or skin sores may be the first thing you actually notice.

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Rule out itch and pain

The most common medical causes are itchy skin and discomfort. Fleas are a top trigger — even indoor cats can get them — so effective parasite control such as [Revolution Plus Topical for Cats](/products/revolution-plus-topical-for-cats) is a smart first step, and our guide to the [best flea and tick prevention for cats](/guides/best-flea-and-tick-prevention-for-cats) can help you choose. Food and environmental allergies, mites, infections, and pain from arthritis or a bladder problem can all trigger licking over a specific area, so a vet exam is worthwhile.

Address stress and boredom

When medical causes are ruled out, overgrooming can be a self-soothing behavior, sometimes called psychogenic alopecia. Triggers include boredom, conflict with other cats, changes in the home, or lack of stimulation. Enrich the environment with vertical space, hiding spots, play, and predictable routines. Interactive toys and daily hunting-style play with a [Cat Wand Toy](/products/cat-wand-toy) can burn nervous energy and redirect the urge to lick. A calm, enriched cat is far less likely to groom compulsively.

When to see the vet

See your vet if you notice bald patches, redness, scabs, sores, or a sudden change in grooming habits. Overgrooming rarely resolves on its own because the underlying cause persists, and constant licking can create raw skin and infection. Your vet can check for parasites, allergies, and pain, and may recommend a diet trial or, for stress-driven cases, a behavior plan. Never apply human anti-itch creams, as many are toxic to cats.