Why is my cat excessively licking and losing fur despite vet visits?

Question

My cat has been licking one area and the fur is basically gone! Been to the vet multiple times, steroids, antibiotics, and gabapentin. Also switched to a z/d food diet. I am at my wits end with the vet and no answers. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 12 years and 1 month old | 10.5 lbs

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

Excessive grooming can sometimes be linked to a behavioral issues (IE stress, or even becoming a habit after a stressful event) rather than a health one. If all tests have ruled out issues (including samples of the affected area sent to a lab), looking to behavioral ones may be beneficial. Trying to reduce any stressors in Belle's life such as making sure she has access to her own food, water, litter, places to sleep and hide, etc may help. Using a soft brush if she is regularly groomed may help as well. Pheromone diffusers such as comfort zone can also help with stress related issues. An Elizabethan (cone) collar or a T-shirt covering the area that is excessively groomed can also help break the habit. Here are some articles that may be useful for you as well on the topic: https://www.petcoach.co/article/psychogenic-alopecia-in-cats/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/excessive-grooming-in-cats-what-it-means-and-how-to-help/

Why is my cat excessively licking and losing fur despite vet visits?

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