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Question:

My cat pulls his hair out.

I'm feeling pretty worried and could really use some advice. My three-year-old tabby, Milo, has started doing something strange and concerning lately – he’s pulling out his own fur. I've noticed small piles of his beautiful gray hair all over the apartment, and he's even got some patches on his back legs and stomach where the skin is totally exposed. He doesn't seem to be in pain, but he’s clearly uncomfortable and spends ages grooming those areas. I’ve checked for fleas and can’t find any, and his diet hasn’t changed, so I’m stumped. Has anyone else experienced this with their cats? I’m anxious because I don't want him to hurt himself or for this to be a sign of something more serious. Any insights or stories from cat owners who've been through this would be really appreciated! Thanks so much.

Answer:

Hello there! I understand your concern about your cat pulling his hair out—let's look into it together. When cats groom excessively, it can lead to hair loss, which is known as over-grooming. There are a few reasons this might happen.



Firstly, your cat could be experiencing some sort of skin irritation, such as fleas, allergies, or an infection, all of which can cause itchiness. Secondly, stress or anxiety can lead to excessive grooming as a form of self-soothing behavior. Changes in environment, such as moving house or introducing a new pet, can be stressful for cats.



At home, you can gently check your cat's skin for signs of fleas, redness, or sores. Providing a calm and enriched environment with toys and regular playtime might help reduce stress. A balanced diet is essential too, as nutritional deficiencies can contribute to skin problems.



Keep an eye out for any signs of a more severe issue: if your cat begins to have skin wounds, loses weight, stops eating, or seems unusually lethargic, these could be red flags.



I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We’ll be able to assess your cat’s condition more closely and guide you through the necessary steps to keep your furry friend healthy and comfortable. Looking forward to helping you and your cat feel better!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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