How to Find and Fix Keyword Cannibalization

Keyword cannibalization occurs when multiple pages on your website target the same or similar keywords, confusing search engines and hurting your rankings. Here’s how to identify and fix it.

What Is Keyword Cannibalization?

Keyword cannibalization happens when multiple pages compete for the same search queries, diluting your SEO efforts. Instead of one strong page ranking, you have several weaker ones.

How to Find Keyword Cannibalization

1. Use Google Search Console

Check the Performance Report to see which queries trigger multiple pages. Look for overlapping keywords with low CTR or rankings.

2. Run a Site Audit with SEO Tools

Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Screaming Frog can scan your site for duplicate or overlapping keyword targets.

3. Analyze Internal Links

Pages with similar content often have overlapping internal links. Identify clusters competing for the same keywords.

4. Check Google’s Indexed Pages

Search site:yourdomain.com "keyword" in Google to see which pages rank for the same term.

How to Fix Keyword Cannibalization

1. Merge or Consolidate Pages

Combine weaker pages into a single, stronger piece of content. Use 301 redirects to preserve link equity.

2. Refocus Keyword Targeting

Adjust meta titles, headers, and content to differentiate pages. Target long-tail variations where possible.

3. Strengthen Internal Linking

Point internal links to the most authoritative page to signal its importance to search engines.

4. Canonicalize Similar Pages

Use rel=canonical tags to indicate the preferred version of duplicate content.

Prevent Future Cannibalization

Plan your content strategy carefully. Use keyword mapping tools to assign unique targets to each page and avoid overlap.

By identifying and resolving keyword cannibalization, you’ll improve rankings, traffic, and user experience.