Does Treatment with Clomipramine Reduce Cat Psychogenic Alopecia?

The document reviews a single pseudo-randomised controlled study to determine if clomipramine reduces overgrooming in cats with psychogenic alopecia. The study's evidence is considered weak and it reports outcomes based on owner observations of grooming behavior and clinical improvement, as well as veterinary assessments of alopecia severity and hair regrowth. The conclusion drawn from this study is that there is no evidence to support the effectiveness of clomipramine alone in reducing grooming episodes, alopecia, or in promoting hair regrowth in cats. The document suggests that further research is needed, specifically recommending randomised, double-blind controlled trials that limit confounding factors, to properly evaluate the efficacy of clomipramine, either alone or in combination with behavioral/environmental therapies. It also advises that the application of this evidence in practice should consider various factors including clinical expertise, patient circumstances, owner values, and available resources.