Siamese cats are more likely to suck on and knead blankets or other soft materials. It has been theorized that our pets engage in these behaviors when they are frustrated or conflicted. In other cases, the animal may exhibit this behavior only when exposed to the right conditions or not at all. Sometimes the behavior begins at a very young age. In this situation, the animal ingests materials that do not provide any nutrients.Īlso, just because some animals have the genetic potential to display these types of behaviors does not necessarily mean that they will manifest them 100 percent of the time. This behavior is known as pica, which can occur in both cats and dogs. Sometimes when the cat places the material in its mouth and suckles, he may also chew on and ingest the material. Siamese and Burmese cats are more likely to suck and knead on blankets or any soft material. Some Doberman Pinschers are more prone to flank suck (which is repetitive sucking, licking or chewing of the flanks), while German Shepherds, Bull Terriers, Anatolian Sheepdogs and Australian Cattle Dogs are more likely to spin and/or chase their tails. In some breeds, we have found a genetic component to compulsive behaviors. Once medical causes have been ruled out however, owners, in consult with their veterinarian or with a veterinary behaviorist, can look to other causes. Other types of diagnostic testing may be required. Dogs that chase lights, shadows or imaginary objects may need to have their vision evaluated by a veterinary ophthalmologist and to be checked by a veterinary neurologist for possible seizure disorders.
#Ocd dog pica skin#
For example, neurological problems can cause circling and what appears to be tail chasing, while flea infestations or skin or inhalant allergies can cause excessive itching, licking or other problems. Why do animals engage in this behavior? First and foremost, you need to consult your veterinarian to rule out medical causes of any sudden, unusual or repetitive behavior. In veterinary medicine, we have no way of knowing if an animal is actually thinking about doing those repetitive behaviors so we do not call it an obsessive compulsive disorder but rather a compulsive disorder. They appear to be unable to stop their own behaviors and report that they constantly think about performing these activities.
#Ocd dog pica windows#
Humans diagnosed with obsessive compulsive behavior may wash their hands so often that their hands are chapped or bleeding or check all the locks on their doors and windows repeatedly. This is a type of behavior that can affect both humans and pets.
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