Pica is differentiated from normal behavior by the repeated and compulsive eating of non-food items. Chewing or tearing items without ingesting material is not indicative of pica.Ĭats may occasionally eat non-food items, but compulsive and repeated ingestion of inappropriate items or particular materials indicates a more severe condition. Many cats occasionally chew or ingest inappropriate items such as plants, fabric, string, or elastic bands, but do not do so habitually. Treatment varies depending on the condition triggering pica behavior A Closer Look: What is Pica in Cats?.Diagnostics include a physical examination, bloodwork, and diagnostic imaging.

Pica can cause gastrointestinal blockages and other serious health problems and must be addressed by a veterinarian.

Cats with pica may also chew on inedible objects, such as toys, clothing, furniture, or electrical cords.

Signs of pica in cats include repeated ingestion of non-food items such as fabric, string, paper, plastic, litter, or rocks.This abnormal behavior can indicate an underlying medical issue such as infection or nutritional deficiency, or may be due to stress.Pica is a behavioral symptom where cats compulsively eat non-food items.

Pica cats symptoms