What is Pica in Cats?

Cats with pica mainly consider genetic problems, lack of certain nutrients, boredom or mental oppression, lack of security, and disease issues as the causes. The incidence of pica behavior in young cats is higher than in adult cats, mainly focusing on licking cotton wool products. Additionally, pica is a dangerous behavior for cats. It can cause mild symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it may lead to intestinal obstruction or even choking. Therefore, owners should promptly stop their cats' pica behavior when they notice it.

Genetic problems

Statistics have shown that among cats with pica, the Siamese cat (55%) and the Maine coon cat (28%) have a higher chance of having pica.

Lack of certain nutrients

When cats lack fiber, vitamins, or minerals in their bodies, they begin to search for and ingest non-edible items that contain fiber or minerals to supplement their intake. In this case, it is necessary to promptly supplement the cat's nutrients, which can be purchased at pet hospitals or pet stores.

Boredom or mental oppression

When cats are bored or emotionally suppressed, they release stress by biting things randomly, resulting in pica behavior. Moreover, if the owner neglects the cat for a long time and doesn't play with it, the cat might also attract the owner's attention by eating things randomly. In this case, the owner needs to spend more time playing with the cat or buy some specialized pet toys for it to play with to see if it can help alleviate the problem.

Lack of security

Cats who leave their mothers prematurely due to a lack of security will suck on wool products, socks,tails or ears of other companions, shoelaces, etc. to seek comfort. This behavior will gradually fade away as they grow older, but if they are under pressure, they might continue this behavior based on their blurred memories.

Disease issues

Cats with immune system diseases, feline leukemia, hyperthyroidism, anemia, oral diseases, and diabetes may exhibit pica behavior. If the pica is caused by a disease, it is necessary to take the cat to the pet hospital for examination and treatment promptly.