Avoid Keyword Self-Cannibalization

[Jaybeamer]

I'm working on the SEO for a page on my website for using a specific keyword.

When I do the on page grader, It has unticked - 'Avoid Keyword Self-Cannibalization'.

What is the best way to sort this issue? I've noticed that the page is using 2 URLs - does this play a role with this and my ranking in Google?

[Chris.Menke]

Julian,

As TextureMediainc says keyword cannibalization occurs when you target the same keyword on multiple pages.  It may also occur when different keywords/key phrases are very similar or share the same words, "67 mustang" and  "67 ford mustang", for example or "pink wedding dresses" and "pink wedding dresses with straps"

Keep in mind, too, that the On-page Grader report you are looking at is specific to the keyword you entered into the keyword field when you run the report If you change the keyword, you may get a different result.  For example, you may grade one of your category pages for the keyword "wedding dress" and find that it indicates you need to address cannibalization (and you get a grade of "A") but if you grade the same page for "pink wedding dress, you'll may find that it doesn't  (but that you grade of "F").

Be sure to look at your site's keywords hierarchically, with your most competitive keywords toward the top of the hierarchy (homepage); that each category of the site has a specific keyword reason for being it's own category; and that the keywords of category sub pages  fit logically and distinctly within the category.

[TMI.com]

Hi Julian,

Can you explain what you mean by "the page is using 2 URLs" ? Usually keyword cannibalization occurs when you target the same keyword on multiple pages. If Moz is showing this unticked box it is probably because it found an instance of this on your site.

I recommend limiting your keyword targeting to one page. If you want to build a lot of content around one keyword, do this carefully. Aim for long tail keywords, different variations, and support content. Example: I am targeting the keyword "dance shoes" for a page that sells "dance shoes." I want to create extra content to support this page, so I write a couple of blog posts about "how to keep your dance shoes clean" or "ways to extend the life of your dance shoes." etc.

Hope this helps.