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Richard K asked in PetsCats · 1 decade ago

why do cats chew on animals?

I have 4 cats. Have been fixed and everything. They always seem to suck on my dogs hair at night and will not stop. He is a Saint bernard. Is this wierd

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Hi Richard...it's not uncommon to hear of cats suckling on other animals especially those who were weaned early or if it's an asian breed, which are more prone to doing this. This condition is called PICA. It isn't harmful so long as the object being suckled on cannot be ingested, however some cats will suckle on wool, or lick wood, plastic or chew unusual objects.

    Here's more on PICA by Univ Calif of Davis:

    http://www.vmth.ucdavis.edu/home/beh/feline_behavi...

    Pica: The Un-finicky Feline

    Chewing or eating cords, fabric, houseplants, etc.

    What is Pica?

    Pica is the act of eating non-food items. In less serious cases, cats may chew or suck on objects, but not actually swallow them. Common targets include yarn or string, fabric, wool, phone or electric cords, and plants. Any object may be a potential target, however.

    Why is Pica Dangerous?

    Other than its destructive potential, pica can be extremely hazardous to your cat's health if non-food items are consumed. Ingested fabric, string, or other materials can lodge in your cat's stomach or intestine. The blockage prevents the passage of food and may cut off the blood supply to these organs. Both are life-threatening conditions. Cat's that chew on power cords may be electrocuted. Additionally, many common houseplants are toxic to cats; chewing or eating these plants can cause a wide range of symptoms from drooling to death. If your cat has a history of ingesting non-food items and becomes lethargic, vomits, or displays other concerning behavior, take them to your veterinarian immediately.

    Why Does My Cat Eat/Chew on Non-food Items?

    No one knows exactly why some cats exhibit pica behavior. Because pica has been associated with a variety of diseases including feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus, a veterinarian should examine any cat with pica. A genetic component is also suspected since wool or fabric sucking/chewing is more commonly found in Oriental breeds such as Siamese cats. Although it is normal for cats to eat small amounts of grass, consumption of large amounts of plant material may be an indication of a dietary deficiency or illness. Once medical causes are ruled out, behavioral reasons for pica can include boredom, attention-seeking, attractive odors, hunger, and learned behavior.

    ...please visit website for more information

    The Catsifier is a nice alternative that the person mentioned too!

    Source(s): Animal Trainer to domestic and exotic cats
  • 1 decade ago

    It is so normal. One of my cats sucks on my clothes. I just think she wasn't weened properly, but I'm not sure if that's a fact.

    They sell this pillow that will help the cat stop sucking on stuff and only suck the pillow. Its cute, you should check it out!

    http://catsifier.reachlocal.com/coupon/?scid=25618...

  • 1 decade ago

    suck his hair? you mean like lick him?

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