Chasing Tail in cats
Chasing tail in cats is a behavior in which the cat repeatedly tries to catch and bite its own tail. This behavior can be normal if it occurs occasionally, but frequent or compulsive chasing tail could indicate a health or behavioral problem.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Chasing tail can be normal play behavior in young cats, triggered by curiosity and natural hunting instincts. Young cats explore their environment and get to know their own body parts. In this context, chasing tail is usually harmless and stops as they get older.
In adult cats, chasing tail can be due to various causes. One of the most common is boredom or under-stimulation. Cats are active animals that need mental and physical stimulation. If they do not receive this, they can develop behavioral abnormalities, including chasing tail.
Another cause could be stress or anxiety. Changes in the environment, such as moving, the loss of another pet, or a family member, can trigger stress in cats, which can manifest itself in behavioral abnormalities such as chasing tail.
Medical causes such as skin problems, parasite infestations, or neurological disorders can also lead to chasing tail. Skin irritation or itching caused by fleas, mites, or allergies can cause the cat to chase and bite its tail to relieve the itching.
A rarer but possible cause is feline hyperesthesia syndrome, a neurological disorder that can lead to excessive sensitivity and compulsive behaviors in cats.
Typical accompanying symptoms
- Repeated tail biting: The cat tries to catch and bite its tail, often with aggressive intensity.
- Restless behavior: The cat appears nervous or anxious, possibly with dilated pupils and pricked ears.
- Excessive Licking or Scratching: The cat frequently licks or scratches certain parts of its body, which may indicate skin irritation.
- Frequent meowing or howling: The cat vocalizes more frequently, which can be a sign of discomfort.
- Changes in eating behavior: The cat eats less or shows a sudden loss of appetite.
- Withdrawal or aggression: The cat withdraws or shows aggressive behavior towards other animals or people.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the vet is necessary if the chasing tail occurs frequently and is accompanied by other symptoms such as skin irritation, changes in behavior or eating behavior. A vet should also be consulted if the cat injures itself or shows signs of pain.
If the cat shows other health abnormalities in addition to its behavior, such as increased Scratching, Hair loss, or signs of Pain, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian can help identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate measures.
An immediate visit to the vet is also advisable if the chasing tail occurs suddenly and intensely, as this could indicate an acute problem that requires rapid treatment.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It is important for the pet owner to observe the cat’s behavior closely and document the frequency and intensity of the chasing tail. Also note any changes in the cat’s environment or behavior that may be related to the onset of the chasing tail.
The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical examination of the cat to rule out medical causes. This includes checking for parasites or skin problems. Blood tests and neurological tests can also be performed to identify other possible causes.
The pet owner’s observations can give the veterinarian valuable clues. An accurate description of the behavior, when and how often it occurs, as well as possible triggers can be crucial for the diagnosis.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
The pet owner can take various measures to alleviate the chasing tail. One of the most important is to provide sufficient mental and physical stimulation for the cat. Toys, scratching posts and interactive games can help to keep the cat busy and avoid boredom.
It is also important to provide the cat with a quiet and safe habitat. Stressors should be minimized and a routine established to give the cat a sense of security. When changes are made to the environment, they should be introduced gradually to reduce stress.
If the chasing tail is caused by medical problems, the pet owner should strictly follow the treatments prescribed by the veterinarian. In the case of skin irritation, special shampoos or medication may be necessary to relieve the Itching.
In some cases, it may be helpful to seek behavioral counseling to learn specific techniques for behavioral change. This can be particularly useful if the behavior is pronounced or compulsive.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.