Fast Facts

• Can indoor cats get fleas? Yes — fleas can hitchhike in on clothes, shoes, visitors, or other pets.
• Is dandruff always a food problem? No — dry winter air, low hydration, reduced grooming, or skin irritation can all cause flaking.
• Can stress cause hair loss? Yes — some cats over-groom when stressed, but it’s important to rule out fleas/allergies first.
• Should I change food immediately if my cat is itchy? Not always. Fleas and environmental allergies are very common. Food trials are best done with vet guidance.
• How often should I brush? Gentle brushing regularly helps most cats — long-haired cats often need more frequent, thorough grooming.

If your cat has open sores, severe itch, or looks unwell, speak to a vet rather than trying lots of changes at once.

The Most Common Triggers

• Fleas & Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): even a few bites can cause intense itch. Often affects lower back/base of tail, belly and inner thighs. You may see scabs, thinning fur, and lots of licking.
• Mites (including ear mites): intense itch, ear scratching/head shaking, crusting, hair loss. Often needs vet confirmation and treatment.
• Environmental allergies: pollen, dust mites, mould. Often paws, belly, face and ears. Can be seasonal or year-round.
• Food allergy/intolerance: can cause itch (often face/ears/neck) and sometimes tummy signs. Food trials are best done with a vet.
• Secondary infection (bacterial/yeast): happens after scratching breaks the skin. Look for redness, sore patches, smell, greasy coat, or recurring ear issues.
• Cat acne (chin blackheads): black specks, crusting, or swollen bumps on the chin.
• Ringworm (fungal): patchy hair loss and broken hairs; can be contagious — vet testing is important.
• Stress over-grooming: belly/legs are common. Rule out fleas/allergy first, then support routine and enrichment.
• Pain-related licking: cats sometimes lick over painful joints/hips/abdomen — worth considering if one area is repeatedly targeted.

If you’re unsure, start with the most common: check fleas, reduce irritants, and speak to a vet if symptoms persist.

Brushing Tips (Especially for Long-Haired Cats)

• Part the coat to brush right down to the roots. On long-haired cats, you often need to lift and part the hair to reach the undercoat properly.
• Brush “backwards” gently in small sections (against the direction the coat lays) to find hidden tangles — then smooth it back into place.
• Be mindful of sensitive zones: armpits, behind ears, groin, and the belly mat easily and can be tender.
• Consider a hygiene trim around the butt area for long-haired cats to prevent poop getting stuck in fur (which can cause irritation and over-cleaning).

How to Handle Matts Safely

• Small matts: you can sometimes tease them apart with your fingers slowly, then brush gently. Watch your cat’s body language and stop if they’re uncomfortable.
• Use a soft slicker carefully: work from the outer edge of the matt and “pick” it apart in tiny strokes rather than dragging through.
• Bigger matts: sometimes it’s safest to remove them very cautiously. Rounded-tip scissors are recommended, and you must avoid cutting skin (cat skin is stretchy and easy to catch).
• Groomer option: a professional groom can help, but some cats find grooming stressful — so gentle home prevention is often best.

If matts are large, close to the skin, or your cat won’t tolerate handling, a vet or groomer is safer than trying to cut at home.

• Reduce irritants: avoid strong sprays, scented plug-ins, smoke, and harsh cleaners near your cat’s areas.
• Wash bedding regularly (especially if allergies are suspected).
• Vacuum and dust more often if your cat is sensitive — allergens build up close to the floor.
• Hydration matters: well-hydrated cats often have better skin and coat condition.
• Keep claws trimmed to reduce self-trauma from scratching.

If your cat is intensely itchy, home habits help — but persistent itch usually needs a vet-led plan.