For some cats, what begins as an innocent behavior, such as chasing her tail or a laser light, can become compulsive. In the case of laser light chasing, the cat may then begin chasing other flickering lights or reflections. This doesn’t mean that using a laser light with your cat will result in compulsive behavior. Cats who are most prone to compulsive behaviors are ones who are repeatedly exposed to stress.

Cats who are routinely in situations where they are torn between running away from a stress trigger or engaging in a confrontation may begin to develop compulsive behaviors. If repeatedly put in these conflicted positions, compulsive behaviors may be triggered more quickly and by lower and lower degrees of stress. If untreated, a compulsive behavior can become the cat’s way of dealing with stress and anxiety.

If you think your cat is displaying compulsive behavior such as over-grooming, hair pulling, tail chasing, tail chewing, pica (eating non-food items), or any other worrisome behavior, contact your veterinarian. It’s important that an accurate diagnosis is made to rule out any underlying medical cause.

Injuries to the tail can cause the cat to engage in tail chewing or tail chasing. Parasites, back pain, skin conditions, allergies, etc., can also cause the cat to display what looks like a compulsive behavior. Seizures can also be misdiagnosed as compulsive behavior. Have your cat checked so appropriate diagnostics can be performed before assuming it’s a compulsive behavior.

The general treatment for compulsive behavior is to reduce the cat’s exposure to stress, especially any specific triggers. Environmental enrichment is very helpful in order to provide the cat with stress-relieving outlets. Increased solo play and interactive play are important as well. In some cases, behavior modification alone isn’t enough and your veterinarian may prescribe psychotropic medication.

For more information, refer to the book Starting from Scratch.

© 2009 Cat Behavior Associates, LLC