Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Compulsive Disorders and Welfare

Compulsive disorders in cats including wool sucking, pica and psychogenic alopecia cause distress and welfare harm.

Key Facts

Compulsive behaviours in cats include excessive grooming, pica, wool sucking and repetitive vocalisation
Oriental breeds have higher prevalence of wool sucking and fabric chewing behaviour
Stress and anxiety are primary triggers for compulsive disorder development
Environmental enrichment and anxiety reduction are first-line management approaches
Medication including SSRIs and clomipramine can reduce compulsive behaviour severity

Welfare Considerations

Compulsive disorders in cats represent significant welfare compromise, both through the behaviour itself and through the underlying anxiety state driving it. Environmental assessment and modification to reduce stress triggers is the foundation of management.

What You Can Do

Identify and reduce environmental stressors for cats showing compulsive behaviours
Provide appropriate enrichment and outlet behaviours for anxious cats prone to compulsive disorders
Seek veterinary assessment including medication options for cats with persistent compulsive behaviour