
In layman’s terms, psychogenic alopecia simply refers to over-grooming. Experts believe that the behavior problem is stress-related. Without proper intervention, it can become deeply-seated and eventually develops into an obsessive-compulsive behavior. For most cats, grooming makes them calm and relaxed. When exposed to stressors, they instinctively groom themselves in an effort to calm themselves down. As they find “relief” in their behavior, they may lick off, chew off, or even pull out their hairs. A characteristic habit of these cats is excessive licking of the inside of their thighs, groin, and belly.
Before your vet labels the cat’s behavior as psychogenic alopecia, a thorough examination and laboratory tests are generally performed to rule out other potential causes such as skin problems, external parasites, allergies, or hyperthyroidism, to name a few.
A visit here https://olddominionveterinaryclinic.com/ to a vet hospital Roanoke, VA should be made as soon as you can so the underlying cause can be identified and addressed appropriately.