>OT: Our cat, Little Miss, has the nervous habit of licking the hair
>off her hind legs from mid-thigh to ancle. There is no redness or rash
>on the skin, no fleas or other uninvited critters causing this action.
>She does it most when she feels she isn't getting enough attention or
>another of the pets is receiving attention. I've heard of birds
>plucking out feathers out of bordum or jealousy, but not a cat licking
>her fur off for it. We do play with her, but not much, because the
>arthritis in her front right shoulder acts up with too much activity.
>How do I stop the licking?

My cat used to do the same thing. I also thought it was agitation.
Turned out he has skin issues and was itchy! The vet switched his food
to the Royal Canin IVD Green Pea & (venison, rabbit, take your pick).
He has never resumed that kind of licking since switching the food. Be
careful tho...that food is bad for the ferrets! Too much plant material
in it, and it causes crystals in the bladder. Good luck.

Cheers,
Jill and the Paws to the Wall Gang

[Posted in FML 6317]