@martym,
IMHO, it's clearly negligence and pretty much mentally abusive. It can be debated by some (not me) whether or not it's cheating because there is not a physical mutual contact. However you are still having sex with another even though there's not actual contact. But how far away is going further and doing the physical act? This is manipulation to think it's acceptable or that it's good for your marriage.
What do you think your wife thinks about your level of commitment to the success of the marriage and you showing her that level of attention? Why not just grow up and deal with it with her? You did make a marital vow in front of family and friends and the community , you recall that, right?