What the Keyword Cannibalization Checker does
A keyword cannibalization checker identifies when multiple pages compete for the same search queries and recommends consolidation or differentiation actions. It identifies overlapping rankings, scores conflict severity, and outputs consolidation actions to recover diluted traffic.
How the tool works
The keyword cannibalization checker pulls GSC query data, detects URL overlaps, scores severity by traffic impact, and outputs fix recommendations.
- Confirm domain and target query scope.
- Pull GSC query-to-URL performance data.
- Detect queries ranking multiple URLs.
- Score severity by impressions, clicks, and position volatility.
- Classify fix action: merge, redirect, or differentiate.
- Output a prioritized cannibalization fix queue.
Inputs and outputs
Inputs are GSC query-to-URL mappings, ranking positions, and click data. Outputs are a cannibalization report, severity scores, and recommended actions (merge, redirect, or differentiate).
Best-fit use cases
Best-fit use cases are post-audit cleanup, content consolidation, and traffic recovery campaigns.
- Fix ranking conflicts after a content audit.
- Consolidate thin pages into authoritative hubs.
- Recover traffic lost to internal competition.
- Prevent cannibalization before publishing similar content.
- Clean up legacy blog posts targeting the same keyword.
- Improve CTR by eliminating SERP self-competition.
FAQ: Keyword Cannibalization Checker
Each answer is direct and based on measurable decay signals.
What is keyword cannibalization?
Keyword cannibalization occurs when multiple pages on your site compete for the same search query. This dilutes ranking signals and can reduce overall traffic.
How do I know if I have keyword cannibalization?
Check GSC for queries where multiple URLs receive impressions. Position fluctuations and split clicks between pages are strong indicators.
How do I fix keyword cannibalization?
The three main fixes are merge, redirect, or differentiate. Merge combines content into one page, redirect consolidates via 301, and differentiate adjusts targeting to unique intents.
Is keyword cannibalization always bad?
Not always. If both pages rank well and serve different intents, they may both earn traffic. Fix cannibalization when one page clearly underperforms due to the conflict.
How often should I check for cannibalization?
Check quarterly or after major content additions. Sites with large content libraries benefit from automated monitoring.