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Why is my cat over-grooming, not eating, sluggish, and has sores?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 2 months old | 11 lbs

My cat is over grooming and making sores/ raw skin spots on the his neck and head. He's decreased his food and water intake as well. I refilled his water this morning and his food last night, but he's barely touched it. He's also had watery eyes and on some occasions look like he's crying. And lastly, he's been very sluggish. Spending most of the day laying around and sleeping. This isnt normal of him, as usually he takes a few 2 hour naps than roams around or plays with his toys. What's wrong?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 19th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Scar. I would recommend that he sees his veterinarian. His skin condition sounds itchy based on the over grooming he is doing. This leads to self trauma and subsequent skin wounds as the skin becomes infected. He could be experiencing allergies, mites, fleas or another type of infection. His veterinarian may perform tests on his skin to determine the best course of treatment. He may require bloodwork as well. Most cats that I see with itchy skin are not otherwise ill. So it worries me that he is not feeling well. In the meantime, encourage him to eat and drink as best you can. Try to discourage him from licking as well. I hope this information helps.

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