Why does my cat keep scratching itself?

Scratching due to wounds healing

If your cat has wounds on its body that are healing, it may experience itchiness, causing it to constantly scratch itself. During this time, owners should carefully examine their cat's body to check the size of the wound and trim their nails or fit them with an Elizabethan collar to prevent the cat from scratching the wound open. You can also feed your cat more nutrient-rich food and supplements to aid in the healing process.

External parasite infection

If your cat hasn't been dewormed in a long time, it's prone to infections from external parasites such as fleas, lice, and mites, which can cause severe itching and constant scratching. In this case, immediate deworming is necessary, along with thorough disinfection of your cat's items and the environment it inhabits.

Feline ringworm

Cats with feline ringworm will show symptoms such as grayish scales, crusts, broken or fallen hair, and intense itching. They will constantly scratch or rub against objects to alleviate the discomfort. If you notice your cat constantly scratching, check for signs of ringworm. If confirmed, promptly clean and disinfect the affected area and apply antifungal cream.

Seasonal changes

During seasonal transitions, a cat's skin usually becomes dry and itchy, leading to constant scratching. At this time, owners should avoid giving their cats frequent baths to prevent damaging the skin's sebum. Also, avoid feeding your cat high-sodium foods and human foods, opting for lighter meals and ensuring your cat drinks plenty of water to maintain proper hydration.