Cat Itching Explained: Early Signs of Skin or Allergy Issues

Has your cat’s grooming turned into a nonstop scratch-and-lick session? A quick scratch here and there is normal, but when your cat seems obsessed with relieving an itch, it’s a sign that something more is going on. Today, we’re going to look at the difference between normal grooming and a potential health problem. 
In this article, you can learn more about the most common causes of cat itching, from pesky parasites to frustrating allergies, and what you need to decide when it’s time to call the vet.

Key Takeaways

• Too much itching is not normal. Don’t worry if you see your cat scratching here and there, but if it becomes frequent or aggressive, licking, and biting it’s time to call the vet.
• The main causes of intense scratching are fleas and allergies. Parasites, environmental allergens like pollen and dust, and food sensitivities are usually the root cause.
• Pay attention to the symptoms. Hair loss, scabs, red skin, ear discharge, and restlessness are signs that your cat needs vet attention.
• Tracking devices are a game changer. Using a tool like the Maven Pet Health Monitor to track your cat’s scratching and grooming habits allows you to spot changes before they become severe.

Why Do Cats Itch?

Itching is a cat’s natural response to an irritant on or in their skin. This can be anything from a bug bite to an allergic reaction. The itching sensation is a signal from the nerves in the skin to the brain, telling the cat to scratch or lick the area to get relief.

However, when this response becomes chronic, it can lead to a cycle of scratching that damages the skin, making it more vulnerable to infection and creating even more intense itching.

Common Causes of Cat Itching

If you’re wondering “why is my cat itching and licking so much?”, it’s likely that the answer is one of these reasons:

Fleas

Flea bites can cause allergic reactions (flea allergy dermatitis), leading to intense itching all over the body. You may not even see the fleas themselves, but you might find “flea dirt” (small black specks) in their fur.

Allergies

Just like humans, cats can be allergic to things in their environment. 

• Environmental Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and grasses.
• Food Allergies: Sensitivities to certain proteins like chicken, beef, or fish.

Ear Mites

If your cat has itching ears, they might have ear mites, which are tiny parasites living inside the ear canal. These mites cause severe itching and irritation.

Skin Infections

Bacterial or fungal infections (like ringworm) can develop, often as a result of a cat scratching and damaging their skin.

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Why Is My Cat Itching and Licking So Much?

If you notice your cat constantly licking or biting their paws, belly, or tail base, pay special attention. This excessive behavior is your cat’s way of trying to get relief from intense discomfort.

Pay attention to these red flags that indicate a problem is brewing:

• Hair Loss: Bald patches or thinning fur, especially around the ears, face, and belly.
• Scabs or “Miliary Dermatitis”: Tiny, crusty scabs that feel like millet seeds when you run your hand over their skin.
• Red, Inflamed Skin: The skin may appear red, irritated, and hot to the touch.
• Foul Odor: A bad smell coming from the skin or ears can signal an infection.
• Restlessness: Your cat may seem unable to get comfortable, constantly shifting positions or grooming.

Cat Itching Ears: What It Could Mean

When your cat is specifically targeting their ears, the cause is often a bit different from general body itching. Cat itching ears are a strong indicator of an ear-specific issue, so check if your cat presents any of these symptoms:

• Constant head shaking or tilting
• Aggressive scratching at the ears or base of the head
• Black or brown discharge that looks like coffee grounds (a classic sign of ear mites)
• Redness or swelling inside the ear flap
• A strong, unpleasant odor from the ears

While ear mites are a common cause, ear infections from bacteria or yeast can also trigger similar symptoms. These conditions are uncomfortable and can be painful, so a trip to the vet is necessary in this case.

When to See a Vet

While a small amount of occasional scratching is normal, you should make an appointment with your vet if you notice any of these issues:

• The itching is persistent and not getting better.
• Your cat has developed bald spots, scabs, or sores on their skin.
• You see any of the “red flags” listed above.
• The itching is severe enough to interfere with your cat’s daily activities (eating, sleeping, playing).
• Your cat is constantly shaking their head or scratching their ears.

A vet can perform a physical exam, and potentially a skin scraping, blood test, or allergy panel to accurately diagnose the cause and recommend a treatment plan, which may include medication, flea prevention, or a dietary change.

“Itching can be one of the first signs of allergies or skin disease in cats. Tracking how often it happens gives us valuable clues to catch problems early. Excessive scratching or licking is not a behavioral issue; it’s a sign of a medical problem that needs to be addressed.” — Joana Babo, DVM

How the Maven Pet Health Monitor Tracks Scratching and Grooming

Knowing when your cat’s scratching moves from normal to excessive can be difficult to track on your own. This is where a pet health tracker can be invaluable. 

Maven Pet
Health Monitor

#1 Vet-recommended pet monitor! Tracks activity, rest, respiratory rate, water intake, scratching and other health indicators 24/7

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Maven Pet’s Health Monitor is a small, lightweight device that uses advanced motion sensors to distinguish between a variety of behaviors, including scratching, licking, and head shaking.

The data is sent to the Maven pet health app, where you can view a detailed log of your cat’s activity throughout the day and week. 

This gives you a clear picture of their baseline grooming habits. When a flare-up occurs, you’ll see a noticeable spike in activity, alerting you to the problem.

By being proactive, you can:

• Identify triggers
• Show your vet essential data
• Monitor progress

Recap

• Excessive cat itching is more than just a nuisance; it’s a symptom that deserves your attention. 
• Monitoring your cat’s health starts with paying attention to their behavior. 
• By knowing what to look for and when to seek professional help, you can get your feline friend the relief they need. 
• Using a tool like the Maven Pet Health Monitor can empower you to become an active participant in your cat’s health, helping you spot the signs early and give your cat a more comfortable life.

Maven Pet focuses on improving the quality of life of our pets with technology, using artificial intelligence (AI) to enable proactive pet care. By accurately collecting and monitoring pet data 24/7 and flagging any irregularities, Maven Pet empowers pet parents and veterinarians to stay ahead of potential health issues, ensuring the well-being and longevity of our beloved companions.