Also known as: 스트레스성 과도한 그루밍
심인성 탈모증은 원발성 피부질환 없이 스트레스나 불안에 대한 반응으로 과도하게 스스로 그루밍하여 발생하는 탈모이다. 이환된 고양이는 주로 복부, 옆구리, 뒷다리 안쪽을 과도하게 핥아 좌우 대칭적인 털 성김을 나타낸다. 배제 진단이며, 겉으로 보기에 이 질환처럼 보이는 사례의 대부분은 결국 알레르기나 통증 등 내과적 원인을 가지고 있다.
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.
