![]() These behaviors seem abnormal because they are displayed out of context and are often repetitive, exaggerated, or sustained. Compulsive disorders (CD) are defined as behaviors usually brought on by conflict but subsequently shown outside the original context. Some veterinary behaviorists do not think that animals can obsess, so rather than talking about obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), they refer to compulsive disorders (CD) in animals ( 3). In psychiatry, these obsessions or compulsions cause marked distress, are time-consuming, or significantly interfere with the person’s normal routine, occupational functioning, usual social activities, or relationships. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors performed in order to prevent or reduce distress ( 2). According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) IV-TR, in humans, obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that are experienced as intrusive and inappropriate, causing marked anxiety and distress ( 2). We only spread the word about products and services we’ve either used or would use ourselves.According to the veterinary literature, a stereotypy is a repetitive, constant, behavior that appears to serve no obvious purpose ( 1). This means that if you decide to purchase through any of our links, we get a small commission. *The Conscious Cat is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to and affiliated sites. This post was first published and has been updated. In some extreme cases, cats may benefit from psychoactive drugs. When all of these fail, consult with a veterinary behaviorist. Scratching posts and kitty tunnels provide distraction and mental and physical challenge. Environmental enrichment: Provide cat trees and window perches so your cat can watch the world outside.Use interactive wand toys such as the Da Bird, and really tire your cat out. Structured playtime: Spend 10-15 minutes, twice a day, playing with your cat.Provide acceptable alternatives for chewing: Provide catnip filled chew toys, cat grass or other kitty greens.Make targeted items unattractive: Use double-sided tape or spray on products that taste bitter but are safe for cats, such as Bitter Yuck.If your cat likes to chew on clothing, keep it in a hamper and make sure closet doors are firmly closed. Remove temptation: Place the items your cat likes to chew on out of reach.If pica is caused by behavioral factors, the following behavior modifications may help: If there is an underlying medical condition, addressing the problem may provide a cure. Your veterinarian will want to do a thorough medical exam, including bloodwork, to rule out any medical causes. ![]() Stress has been identified as a possible risk factor, and for a cat, stress can mean anything from changes in the household to boredom. Genetics and temperament may also play a role. The disorder seems to be more prevalent in oriental breeds. It has been associated with a number of medical conditions, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to endocrine disorders to brain tumors. Most cats outgrow this behavior as they age, but in some, it becomes a lifelong habit. ![]() Wool sucking is believed to be displaced nursing behavior and is sometimes observed in cats who were weaned too suddenly or too young when they were kittens. ![]()
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