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In reply to the discussion: Is there any way to train cats to stop licking themselves? [View all]The Velveteen Ocelot
(115,615 posts)Years ago I had a cat who licked the fur off a large patch of belly skin, which got raw and inflamed. Cortisone (steroid) finally took care of it. I've been told that excessive licking is often the result of an allergy, then the cat makes it worse by licking and irritating the skin even more, which makes him keep licking, and the cycle continues. The vet said the only way to break the cycle is to stop the skin from itching in the first place, which often does require cortisone or other steroid treatments. In my cat's case it took only one shot, and he had to wear the Collar of Shame for a bit, but he stopped licking and the fur grew back. He did not become diabetic, and in fact lived to the ripe old age of 21.
I'm sure your poor cat is pretty itchy and uncomfortable, so you might have to go the steroid route.