For a variety of reasons, cats will eat litter and other unwanted stuff. Pica, or the eating of non-food objects, is the term for this activity.
Pica can have a multitude of causes, including a mother leaving her kittens, which can result in nursing behavior. Pica-affected cats can eat anything, including plastic, fabric, twine, paper, dirt, and even litter.
Pica can be harmless or bothersome in some cases, such as licking plastic bags, but consuming non-food things can create intestinal obstructions. It might also be a symptom of a disease.
Cats eat litter for a variety of reasons.
It could be a health or behavior concern if your cat or kitten is eating litter. If you suspect a health problem, take your cat to the doctor as soon as possible, especially if the behavior occurs unexpectedly.
Some kittens may consume litter out of curiosity, but with close supervision, they will grow out of the habit.
Anemia
Eating litter could indicate that your cat is ill, and anemia is one illness that can cause this behavior. Anemia is defined as a shortage of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the body. Gums that are pale, white, or bluish should be checked by cat owners. A lack of iron, trace minerals, vitamins, or vital fatty acids can cause anemia.
Additionally, if your cat is eating litter, it could be an indication of leukemia or kidney problems (both of which induce anemia).
A complete blood count (CBC) and urinalysis will be performed by your veterinarian as part of a normal exam. The blood count will disclose whether or not the cat has anemia, and the urinalysis will reveal the urine's concentration level; pee that is excessively dilute indicates kidney disease. Your veterinarian will take radiographs or an MRI if your cat exhibits symptoms of blockage.
Deficiencies in Vitamins and Minerals
If your cat isn't getting enough nourishment from its food, it may be eating litter. Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), L-Carnitine, Magnesium, Pyruvate Kinase, Sodium, and/or Taurine deficiency in cats can also cause litter eating. Minerals in a clay-based litter may help to compensate for the deficit. Dietary adjustments or supplements may be recommended by your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist.
Kittens inquisitive
Because kittens may eat litter out of curiosity, it's best to wait until they're older before using clumping litter. When you eat clumping litter, you risk getting an intestinal blockage. Use a non-toxic litter and keep an eye on it. If you notice your kitten eating the litter, take it out of the box—but only after it has finished its business.
Adult cats may eat litter if the type of litter has recently been changed, such as wheat- or corn-based litter.
What to Do If Your Cat Is Eating Litter
You can focus on changing your cat's behavior away from eating the litter once he's been given a clean bill of health. Of course, litter comes in a variety of forms, including clay, clumping (smelling and unscented), corn, wheat, and paper. If your cat only eats one type, try a different one.
It's possible that your cat is bored. Redirect the behavior with play if you find it eating litter. To entice him away from the box, toss a crinkle ball or a toy mouse, or dangle a fishing pole toy.
Rethink your cat's eating habits. Upgrade your pet's food, particularly if it's supermarket-grade dry food. Nutritionally, many high-quality food selections are more complete.
Enhance your cat's natural hunting instincts. Look at food puzzle toys, which foster natural foraging behavior, in addition to increasing playtime. There are numerous various versions available in pet stores, as well as many ways to make your own from common household objects. Puzzle toys provide a pleasant method for your cat to work for its food while diverting its attention away from unwanted behavior.
Try giving your cat a pot of cat grass. This serves as a distraction from the litter box and provides your cat with something to gnaw on. Don't forget about catnip, the perennial favorite of joyful cats. Grow your own and serve it fresh, sprinkle it on scratchers, or purchase catnip-filled toys.
Read next: Why Do Cats Blink When They See You?
Comments