What does it mean if a cat has pica?
Pica is the behavioral urge to eat nonedible materials. In cats, these items most often include fabrics, elastics such as hair binders, cardboard, paper, and plastic.
Is pica a genetic disease?
Pica may also be explained by an organic hypothesis whereby the presence of a genetic disorder, such as Prader-Willi syndrome (a disorder characterized by hyperphagia), increases the risk of ingesting nonfood substances.
What is the psychology behind pica?
People with certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), may develop pica as a coping mechanism. Some people may even enjoy and crave the textures or flavors of certain nonfood items. In some cultures, eating clay is an accepted behavior.
Do cats outgrow pica?
Pica 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.
Can cats have pica disorder?
Many cats will chew and tear at objects when exhibiting predatory behaviour during play but pieces are torn off and not consumed. A pica sufferer will take the chosen object in its mouth and grind repeatedly with the back molar teeth before swallowing in a sequence that can take just a few seconds.
How do you treat pica in cats?
What You Can Do
- Remove targeted items. The easiest solution may be simply to hide the clothes, plants, or other items your cat loves to chew on.
- Give your cat something else to chew.
- Play with your cat.
- Make appealing items unappealing.
- Get rid of dangerous plants.
- Talk to an animal behaviorist.
What are signs of pica?
Pica Symptoms and Characteristics
- Nausea.
- Pain in the stomach (or abdominal cramping which can indicate that there may be an intestinal blockage)
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- Stomach ulcers (which may cause blood in the stools)
- Symptoms of lead poisoning (if paint chips that contain lead are ingested)
How is cat pica diagnosed?
There is no test that can be used to diagnose pica. Diagnosis is based on your observations at home, so it is important to take note of which items your cat is chewing or eating and how frequently this behavior occurs. If your cat is showing signs of pica, consult your veterinarian.