Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors in Cats

You may have heard of obsessive-compulsive disorder at some point in your life. It is considered one of the psychological disorders that can lead to quite serious problems. Obsessive-compulsive disorder can also be seen in cats and can reduce the quality of life of our furry friends. This problem can lead to various behavioral changes in cats, and behavioral changes seen due to obsessive-compulsive disorder can also appear as a secondary symptom due to other health problems.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, briefly called OCD, causes a cat to perform various behaviors without any apparent reason. These behaviors are generally abnormal, repetitive, exaggerated, and purposeless. The exact cause of OCD in cats is unknown, but it is more common in some cat breeds. Therefore, it is thought that there may be genetic factors in the disorder, but opinions regarding genetic predisposition have not yet been definitively established. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Symptoms in Cats Cats with OCD will exhibit at least one or more obsessive-compulsive behaviors. While some cats exhibit variations in various behaviors, others have one main obsessive behavior. Excessive grooming or excessive licking is the most common symptom of OCD. Cats with OCD lick or pull out their fur excessively. If this is constant, bald spots will appear on the cat's fur. Excessive licking can also be a sign of food allergies or parasites.

Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Cats

Cats with OCD will exhibit at least one or more obsessive-compulsive behaviors. While some cats exhibit a variety of behaviors, others have one main obsessive behavior.

Excessive grooming or licking is the most common symptom of OCD. Cats with OCD lick or bite their fur excessively. If this is constant, bald patches may appear on the cat's fur. Excessive licking can also be a symptom of food allergies or parasites.

Some cats obsessively lick, suck, or chew on fabrics. Cats with this behavior usually lick woolen clothing or woolen yarns. Some cats with OCD chase their tails or may physically harm themselves. Frequent, sudden, rapid running or excessive meowing are also possible signs of OCD in cats, but these symptoms can also mean many other things. Therefore, it is recommended to observe cats and evaluate whether different symptoms are seen.

Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome can also be seen in cats with OCD. Also known as rippling skin or twitching skin syndrome, this condition is not fully understood. Usually, the skin on the cat's back twitches when touched.

All these behaviors begin as occasional, normal behaviors in your cat, or changes may be triggered by environmental or physical factors. Over time, the behaviors become permanent, and the cat may not need any trigger to exhibit this behavior. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors can be amplified by pain-relieving and pleasure-inducing chemicals in the brain. The behaviors can be used as a coping mechanism for a cat in a stressful or anxious situation.

How is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed in Cats?

It is not possible to diagnose OCD with a test. Usually, the behavioral pattern raises suspicion of OCD. However, before making a diagnosis, all other disorders that could cause this behavioral pattern must be checked and ruled out. If you observe obsessive-compulsive behaviors in your cat, you should inform your veterinarian.

To diagnose OCD in cats, other underlying disorders that may be causing the cat's behavior are first ruled out using differential diagnosis methods. Recording your cat when it exhibits OCD behaviors and showing the video to the veterinarian can make diagnosis easier. A physical examination may also be necessary to check for abnormalities in the cat.

OCD Treatment Methods in Cats

There is no cure for obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, it is possible to mention some methods that can be tried to alleviate or completely eliminate some symptoms.

First of all, try not to calm, soothe, or reward the cat when it exhibits obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Otherwise, the cat's behaviors may intensify, and it may exhibit these behaviors more frequently. Instead, try to ensure that the cat does not deviate from its daily routine as much as possible. This helps the cat feel safer and less stressed.

To help reduce your cat's stress levels, your veterinarian may recommend nutritional supplements or natural supplements. These supplements can be used with prescription medications or alone. Calming supplements used for OCD usually contain tryptophan, L-theanine, vitamins, and herbal ingredients. You can find calming vitamins and supplements for cats here.

Cats with severe OCD need to take prescription medication. These medications reduce stress by altering the brain's chemical structure and change the behavioral patterns caused by the disorder. If your cat has OCD, you should stay in contact with your veterinarian regarding your cat's progress. Do not change or stop medication without consulting your veterinarian. The treatment plan for OCD may be adjusted periodically depending on your cat's health. You must inform your veterinarian if there is any change in your cat's behavior.