Felines with a mild case of pica may not consume the object, but chew, lick or suck on said inedible object. Common target objects for feline pica include plants, electric cords, phone cords, wool, fabric, string or yarn. Symptoms of Pica in Cats Pica in cats only has one clinical sign and that is consumption of inedible objects. Young cats are more likely to suffer from pica syndrome. In cats, these items most often include fabrics, elastics such as hair binders, cardboard, paper, and plastic. What is Pica Syndrome in Cats? Pica is the behavioral urge to eat nonedible materials. The cause behind pica is unknown, however, disease and behavioral disorders are thought to be the underlying cause behind this unusual behavior. What causes a cat to pica on fabric?Ĭommon target objects for feline pica include plants, electric cords, phone cords, wool, fabric, string, or yarn. If your cat is eating non-food objects around the house, such as fabrics and paper, they may be experiencing pica. If your cat is exhibiting signs of pica, you should talk to a vet about the severity of their condition and your treatment options. Should I take my Cat to the vet for pica? The onset of pica can be as early as 3 months of age and some cats are able to grow out of it by 1-2 years of age. The cause of pica is unknown, but experts speculate that it could be due to a number of causes such as being weaned too young, dietary deficiencies, genetics, boredom, compulsive disorder, or stress.
Although many young cats will chew or tear apart items during play, a pica sufferer will grind the object repeatedly along their back molar teeth before swallowing. What materials are consumed? Can a 2 year old cat grow out of pica? However other domestic cats with no known Oriental ancestry can also suffer from pica. It is most frequently seen in certain breeds, such as Siamese, Burmese, Tonkinese and other Oriental types, leading to the suggestion that there may be a genetic component with the trait passing down particular family lines. If the veterinarian has found an underlying disease, the treatment will be specified by the veterinary medical professional, but if your feline has received a clean bill of health, treatment may include: What breeds of cats can get pica? The treatment for pica in cats is variable, as it lies dependent on the underlying cause and the results from diagnostic exams. You will be asked to explain the behavior your cat has been exhibiting, what he or she seeks out as a target to consume, and the duration of this behavior. The diagnosis of pica in cats begins with an exchange of notes between the veterinarian and the pet owner. Often the molar teeth are used to chew holes in such materials. Frequently reported items which cats may chew include wool, fabric, wood, plastic, paper and plants (Case, 2003, Horwitz & Mills 2009). Pica involves ingestion of non-food items. If your cat does not improve with the treatments recommended by your veterinarian, he or she may refer you to a veterinary behaviorist.
Some felines will “grow out” of the inappropriate behavior, whereas other need continuous treatment. The prognosis for cats displaying pica behavior is guarded. How do I know if my cat has PICA syndrome?.What happens if a cat eats a piece of fabric?.What are the secondary conditions of pica in cats?.How do I know if my cat has a blockage?.Should I take my Cat to the vet for pica?.What is the treatment for pica in cats?.
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