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Why is my cat licking her chest fur thin and how can I stop it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

I think my cat is over licking her fur, or pulling out her fur on her chest. Is that something cats do and how can I stop it? I can see a pink hue underneath her fur where it’s thinner in that one spot.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 3rd, 2018

Cats do this for several reasons. An allergy or a bite can cause them to over groom one area and cause sores and an infection. Sometimes it can be stress and behavior induced. check for any fleas to see if that is a reason and treat with prevention. From there your vet can assess the area and see which medications would be helpful to control the reason. If it is behavior with a stress component, you may need to add feliway diffusers to help

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on June 28th, 2018
Place an e-collar (cone) on him to prevent further licking. Have Max physically examined by your veterinarian to diagnose infection or foreign body. He may also be licking due to boredom or anxiety. Use toys, tasks and exercise to keep him engaged and active and distracted from his paw/leg. A pheromone product, such as Feliway spray or plug in diffuser, may decrease any anxiety. You can also discuss anxiety medication with your veterinarian after medical causes for the licking have been ruled out.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on March 30th, 2017
Place an e-collar (cone) on Hallow to prevent further licking. This excessive grooming may be behavioral in nature. Try to engage her more using toys as distractions. A pheromone product such as Feliway spray or diffuser may decrease any anxiety that could be causing the licking. When possible, have her examined by your vet to diagnose and treat any medical cause.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on February 17th, 2018
Have SnuggleBug examined by your veterinarian. If the skin is broken, she is at risk for infection and will likely need antibiotics. Your vet may also dispense an anti-inflammatory and possibly anti-anxiety medication.
For now, placing an e-collar (cone) on her will be of great benefit. It will prevent further licking and may be enough to allow for healing.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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