Does treatment with clomipramine reduce cat psychogenic alopecia?

Abstract

PICO question In cats with psychogenic alopecia, is overgrooming reduced by the use of clomipramine compared to untreated cats? Clinical bottom line Category of research question Treatment The number and type of study designs reviewed One pseudo-randomised controlled study Strength of evidence Weak Outcomes reported Effect of clomipramine using owner report of number, intensity, and / or duration of grooming episodes, owner reported clinical improvement, and veterinary measured alopecia, extent of tissue damage, and hair regrowth Conclusion The only controlled study found no evidence that clomipramine alone is effective in reducing grooming episodes, alopecia, or improved hair regrowth. Further research with randomised, double blind controlled trials and limitation of confounding factors is required to determine the efficacy of clomipramine alone or in addition to behavioural / environmental therapies How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.

Keywords

• cats
• psychogenic alopecia
• overgrooming
• compulsive disorder
• stress related behaviour
• clomipramine
• tricyclic antidepressants