My cat is licking and scratching herself bald. She doesn't have fleas and won't eat her prescription food to determine if it's a food allergy. Not sure what to do next.

I'm sorry to hear about your cat's discomfort! Excessive licking and scratching can be distressing for both of you, but I'm here to help. Since you've ruled out fleas, we can consider a few other common causes.



Cats often over-groom due to allergies, either environmental or food-related. Environmental allergens, like pollen, dust, or mold, might be the culprits. Stress or anxiety can also lead to this behavior, as grooming is a natural stress-relief mechanism for cats. Finally, skin infections or irritations might contribute to her symptoms.



For at-home care, try to identify and reduce potential stressors—this might mean introducing calming pheromones or providing a more enriching environment with toys or climbing structures. Regularly brushing your cat can help to stimulate her skin and remove excess fur and dander, which might be relieving for her.



Keep an eye out for signs like open sores, bleeding, redness, or any changes in behavior, like lethargy or a decrease in appetite. These signs might indicate something more serious that needs immediate attention.



I’d love to explore this further with a video consult through Dial A Vet so we can discuss her specific needs and find a solution that works for both of you.