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My cat's nipples are red and scabby, and she won't stop licking them.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 years and 2 months old

My cat has 2 red scabby nipples. A few months ago it was just one and it went away. Now it came back on two. She licks that area a lot but she doesn't seem to be in any pain. She's eating and acting like she normally does. I don't feel any lumps around them either. She's never been to a vet so I also don't know how to go about getting her to one without any shots.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on July 25th, 2017

I would try putting coconut oil on her nipples and placing a cone collar to prevent the licking. I would do this for a few days to see if they improve. If she is excessively licking secondary to anxiety this may not solve the problem as she will just start licking again when you take the cone off of her. You can add some feliway diffusers which is a cat pheromone that will sometimes help with anxiety. Finally, if she isn't improving or gets worse, I would take her to a vet for an exam. Your vet will likely recommend vaccines since she has never had them but in most places you have the right to decline them. Core vaccines are recommended to keep your cat healthy and safe throughout their life. Rabies vaccine is required by law in most if not all states. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, it sounds like Bella may be irritating her nipples with her licking. The scabs may be resolved if Bella's licking is controlled. Cats may lick themselves as normal grooming behaviors. However, cats may also lick excessively if they are stressed, are itchy due to allergies, fleas, or other parasites. I would consult with your veterinarian about her licking. Cats are definitely challenging for owners to bring to the vet. Often they struggle to put them in their carriers and it typically is an overall stressful day for both cats and parents. If possible, you may try to have a veterinarian come to your house. Otherwise you can entice Bella with her favorite treat to go in her carrier and then have your veterinarian assess the situation once at the vet. Hope this helps.

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