Have you ever caught your cat munching on houseplants or gobbling up thread from the couch? This craving for non-food items is a disorder known as pica, and although it may seem like a silly, harmless habit, it can cause harm to your pet if it isn’t examined. Show
This guide will explain the signs of pica, reasons your cat may have a taste for non-food items, and strategies to prevent and treat pica. What Is Feline Pica and What Can Cause It?Feline pica refers to when cats eat non-edible items or things with no nutritional value, like plastics, fabrics, rubber, plants, soil, or paper. It’s common in cats of all ages, but tends to appear in younger cats. In some cases, kittens or young cats start by sucking on different materials and ingesting them in the process, or they progress to chewing and swallowing them. Pica can become a danger to your cat’s health because it can cause blockages in their intestinal tract. The disorder isn’t well understood yet, but it could be related to a number of issues, including stress and medical issues like pancreatitis and constipation. Below, we’ll touch on some common causes of pica in cats. Environmental Causes: Stress, Boredom, or LonelinessBoredom, loneliness, and stress in your cat's life are common culprits with pica. A lack of environmental stimulation, like enough playtime or social time, can cause cats to turn to this compulsive disorder to have fun, relieve some stress, or get your attention. Nutritional DeficienciesNutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin or mineral deficiencies, can also be one of the causes of pica. They can stem from many sources, like changing life stages, a health condition, or a poor, imbalanced diet. Some cats will naturally turn to other items as potential food sources to try to fill this nutritional void and the cravings it creates. Medical DisordersSeveral medical issues are linked to pica. These include:
GeneticsUnfortunately, some cat breeds are more susceptible to pica than others. These breeds include:
In addition, Oriental breeds are prone to sucking on wool products like bedding and consuming wool fabric in the process. AgePica is very common in young cats, and it can show up as early as three months, right around the time the cat moves into a new home. Many cats outgrow the disorder by about two years. In one study showed how pica becomes less likely as cats mature:
One potential reason that young cats start eating non-food materials is that they were weaned too early. If the kittens leave their mothers before 12 weeks, they may develop a habit of sucking on things, then chewing, and finally eating. Pica can also occur in older cats. The late onset of the problem usually has a medical cause, like an underlying health disorder or stressful situation. Pica Signs and SymptomsHow can you spot pica, so you can adjust your cat's diet and lifestyle to combat the disorder? Here are some ideas: Your Cat Is Eating Non-Food ItemsSeeing your cat eating non-food items is a clear sign that pica is present, especially if the behavior is consistent. Some items they may consume according to International Cat Care include:
Don't assume that chewing is always pica. Cats may chew on things, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re eating them, so keep an eye on them. VomitingIf your cat starts vomiting and you notice non-food items in the vomit, you may have a case of pica. You can also have a cat that vomits due to an intestinal blockage caused by pica. Lack of AppetiteCats who have an intestinal blockage or who fill their bellies with non-food items may not want to eat their food. A sudden lack of appetite in an otherwise normal and healthy cat is a sign there may be a problem. Behavior ChangeCat behavior problems are often one of the first clues owners get about underlying health issues. If your cat isn’t acting like their usual self, they may have a behavioral condition that is causing pica. 5 Simple Tips for Treating Pica in CatsIf you notice pica in your cat, know that the behavior can be tricky to treat, but there are measures you can take to help your cat start eating healthy food, and only healthy good, again. 1) Start By Seeing Your VeterinarianIf you suspect your cat has a medical problem or unhealthy habit, always start by consulting your veterinarian. They’ll be able to look for any underlying problems or conditions. 2) Provide Your Cat With Environmental EnrichmentIf you suspect boredom is the problem, add mental stimulation to your cat's day. Doing so will keep them engaged and eliminate the desire to chew and eat items the cat shouldn't be eating. Enrichment Activities That Help With PicaHere are some ideas you can use to help keep your cat engaged at home: 3) Pick Up Any Objects Your Cat Shouldn't Be Eating (But Is)Once you notice pica behaviors, take some time to make your home safer for your cat. Be diligent to pick up the items that might tempt your cat to chew. You could also consider spraying them with a feline-safe deterrent. 4) Play With Your CatCats need (and want) socialization with their owners and sometimes other animals. So, schedule regular playtime with your cat. Use an engaging toy with a mouse or feather on a string or a laser pointed to amp your cat up, raise their energy levels, and reduce stress. You can even stuff their toys with low-calorie cat treats (or hide them around the house) to help keep their interest. 5) Consult an Animal BehavioristIf all of these tips don't work, consider working with an animal behaviorist. This professional can help you determine why your cat is struggling with pica and provide helpful advice to curb that behavior. Feed Your Cat Things They Should Eat, Like Food From The Honest Kitchen!Since nutritional deficiencies are a potential cause of pica in cats, make sure you’re choosing a healthy food option. The Honest Kitchen has human grade cat foods with a taste your pet will love. Each meal, treat, and supplement is full of the nutrients your cat needs for a well-rounded diet.Health Disclaimer: This post is educational in nature and doesn’t constitute health advice. Please consult your pet’s veterinarian or other healthcare professionals for specific guidance on this topic. |