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Why is my indoor cat suddenly scratching, licking, and crying in pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old

My cat is scratching and licking all of a sudden. It cries like it is in a fight while doing this. Acting like the hair is hurting. It's an indoor cat

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 6th, 2016

Do flea control, if you have not done so yet. Even indoor cats can catch a flea brought in from the ourside. If there is no flea problem then your kitty may be suffering fom Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome, which is a type of seizure disorder. I suggest you take her to your vet ASAP for an exam. There are mesications available to reduce these attacks, such as anti-anxiety medications. However, your vet needs to rule out other diseases that could cause sudden pain.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This sounds like an acute allergic reaction which could be caused by a chemical, fleas (even indoor pets can get fleas by transport inside by other pets or on people's clothing/shoes), environmental or even a ringworm infection (if the skin is red and raw in appearance). You can start by bathing your kitty in an oatmeal-based shampoo and investigating the skin for any evidence of fleas. Then you can start pet friendly Omega 3-Fatty acids to help with skin inflammation. If this does not resolve the issue then your kitty needs a vet visit for a thorough history, examination of the skin, and potentially stronger medications and flea control to help rule out all possibilities for extreme pruritus (itching).

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    Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    There is a possibly that your cat could be having a reaction to something or a flea allergy. I'd recommend having her seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. When they are this uncomfortable they can cause a lot of damage to themselves.

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