Psychogenic alopecia is hair loss caused by excessive self-grooming in response to stress or anxiety, in the absence of a primary skin disease. Affected cats over-lick, often along the belly, flanks, and inner legs, producing symmetrical thinning. It is a diagnosis of exclusion, as most apparent cases ultimately have a medical cause such as allergy or pain.
Psychogenic alopecia is hair loss from compulsive overgrooming driven by stress rather than skin disease. It is uncommon as a pure behavioural problem and is diagnosed only after medical causes are excluded.
Anxiety, environmental change, conflict with other cats, and boredom are behavioural drivers. Pruritus from allergy, parasites, or pain frequently underlies grooming once thought to be psychogenic.
Symmetrical thinning or bald patches, often on the abdomen, flanks, and limbs, with otherwise normal-looking skin. Owners may not witness the grooming itself.
Diagnosis requires excluding allergic, parasitic, infectious, and painful causes through skin testing, parasite control trials, and sometimes imaging. Trichography confirms self-inflicted breakage rather than spontaneous loss.
Management reduces stressors, enriches the environment, and may include pheromones and anxiolytic medication such as fluoxetine. Any concurrent medical contributor must also be treated.
Minimising chronic stress, providing enrichment, and addressing skin disease early help prevent overgrooming.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
