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Check out the latest entries in our Keep Cats Safe campaign below. i cat care (First post in 2020) Below:
Pica is a term used to describe the consumption of non-edible substances.
It is most common in certain breeds such as Siamese, Burmese, Tonkinese, and other Oriental ancestry, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to the trait that can be passed down in families, but in cases where Oriental ancestry is unknown. Other domestic cats may also suffer from pica.
What kind of substances are being eaten?
In oriental breeds, pika is mainly called “wool-eating”, since it is the most commonly chosen material. However, this also affects other natural and synthetic fibers, and some cats prefer certain textures. Other materials such as rubber, leather, wood, plastic, cellophane, paper, and cardboard are also popular.
When does this behavior occur?
Some kittens under 3 months old may already have a habit of chewing on bedding, but this habit may stop as they grow older. For others, the habit persists into adulthood and resists intervention.
How do I know if my cat has pica?
Many cats will chew or tear things while playing, but even if the pieces are torn off, they won’t be eaten. Cats with pica will put objects in their mouths, grind them repeatedly with their molars, and then swallow them. The sequence takes only a few seconds. This action is very beneficial for patients, and many will make every effort to find their favorite material. The reason for this is not fully understood, but one theory is that the act of chewing releases chemicals in the pica brain, creating a strong pleasure sensation that becomes addictive. .
Is pika dangerous?
Many substances ingested as a result of pica cannot be digested in the same way as food, causing intestinal obstruction and requiring surgery (called a laparotomy) to remove the foreign body (called a “foreign body”). There is a risk that body’). In severe cases, part of the intestine may need to be removed, but the cat usually makes a full recovery afterwards.
What signs should I look out for if my cat has a blockage?
If you know your cat is suffering from pica, it’s important to closely monitor him for signs of intestinal blockage. These signs are:
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- Constipation (unproductive straining)
- general malaise
What should I do if my cat eats wool or other materials?
Those who suffer tend to have a restricted lifestyle. For example, people who live only indoors or people who are particularly susceptible to stress. These cats require a great deal of stimulation to provide the behaviors that are natural for their species.
It’s a good idea to keep materials that your dog tends to eat out of reach, and give your dog more opportunities to play with moving objects, such as toy fishing rods. Some cats may benefit from changing their diet to one with more fiber, or by introducing soft skin sticks (usually for small dogs) with a drop of fish oil in place of chewing. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a diet that is considered appropriate.
Not all pica habits are serious. If your cat chews indiscriminately, you may be able to stop it by using olbas oil (eucalyptus oil) or bitter apple (used to prevent animals from chewing on seams). In these cases, simply leaving the item out of sight may be sufficient to resolve the issue.
What should I do if my attempts to stop my cat’s pica fail?
Pica can be very difficult to manage, so consulting a behavioral specialist can be helpful. A professional will visit your home, assess your cat’s lifestyle, and provide suggestions for stimulating your cat and reducing the stressful situations involved. If your cat is highly motivated to ingest non-edible substances, your veterinarian may prescribe antidepressants that may be effective in conjunction with the behavioral therapy being implemented.
Since this behavior can be inherited, should I inform the breeder?
There is some evidence to suggest that pica may be hereditary, so it is important for breeders to be aware of this problem and take the necessary steps. Therefore, if a pedigree cat has this problem, it is wise to let the breeder know.
Are there other pica issues that may affect my cat?
Eating or licking abnormal substances may occur as a result of certain disease-related urges. hyperthyroidism (thyroid tumor), cancerlead poisoning, or Feline infectious peritonitis. Cats with a heavy burden of intestinal parasites or with chronic dietary deficiencies may also ingest non-nutritive substances. Most cats who ingest these substances for medical reasons will also exhibit other behaviors that indicate they are unwell.
My cat eats cat litter, should I be concerned?
It is relatively common for kittens to eat cat litter when they are first weaned and potty trained. Although some biodegradable organic materials are inherently harmless, many cohesive clay sands are manufactured using a compound called sodium bentonite, which is a highly absorbent material. , if your kitten eats or inhales it, it can cause dehydration and respiratory illness. For this reason, it is best to avoid using such litter materials while your kitten is still young.
If an adult cat begins to eat clay-based litter, this may indicate the presence of a disease. Cats with anemia may lick or eat sand, so it is best to seek urgent veterinary advice.
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