Cats spend a large part of each day grooming, but licking that is frantic, focused on one spot, or paired with bald patches and skin damage is not normal. Stress and anxiety can increase grooming as a self-soothing behavior, sometimes leading to psychogenic overgrooming where barbering removes fur without obvious skin disease.

Allergies to fleas, food, or environment often cause itchiness; flea allergy in particular can trigger intense licking at the lower back and tail base even when you see few fleas. Parasites such as mites need specific treatment. Pain from arthritis, urinary issues, or abdominal discomfort may localize to excessive licking of legs, belly, or genital area.

Ringworm, bacterial infection, and pain from mats in long hair can also drive overgrooming. New pets, moves, or schedule changes may tip a sensitive cat into compulsive grooming.

Do not apply human creams or essential oils. Record when and where the cat licks, check for fleas and mats, and schedule a veterinary visit for skin exam and appropriate workup. Treatment targets the cause: parasite control, allergy management, pain relief, environmental stress reduction, or behavior modification with professional guidance when anxiety is central.