Pica in dogs is a condition where they crave and compulsively eat items that are not typically edible or considered food. Sure, dogs often eat grass, but pica is something a lot more serious. While pica-like behavior is typical in puppies learning what is and what isn't food, most pups will grow out of this. When adolescent and adult dogs continue to eat items that are not food, it can be very frustrating for owners and potentially dangerous for the dog. What is more, a research in Japan specifies that pica is the third most commonly reported behavioral problem in canines after barking at noises and unfamiliar visitors. ![]() Often, the items that are being eaten are wildly inappropriate things that offer nothing in the way of nutrition, like wood, towels, or even plastic. Some dogs might crave and eat only one thing, like socks or paper, while others are a little less discerning and will eat various non-food items. This can include dogs eating rocks and books, and even drywall.Ĭanine pica is so much more than quirky behavior. It's a very complex disorder with some potentially dangerous and life-threatening consequences if it goes untreated. Pica dogs can develop severe intestinal blockages due to their strange diet, and their inappropriate snacks can cause irreversible damage to their teeth and even perforation of the stomach or intestines, which require immediate treatment. Pica in dogs shouldn't be confused with another common problem called coprophagia, which is a tendency, often in puppies, to eat feces. While it is more common in puppies, coprophagia can carry over into adulthood but is not strictly classified as pica. The symptoms of pica disorder in dogs are easy to pick up on if you're around your dog when they display inappropriate eating behavior. There's no better confirmation than catching your pooch eating something they shouldn't be. But you might not be with your dog all day, and you may struggle to catch them in the act of snacking on non-food items. In this case, there are some signs you can look out for that may indicate a problem. Signs of pica in dogs can include things such as vomiting and diarrhea, but lethargy, a loss of appetite, and excessive drooling can also indicate a problem. An intestinal blockage is one of the side effects of untreated pica in dogs. If your dog is straining during bowel movements, constipated, burping, drooling excessively, suffering from abdominal contractions, or passing dark, tarry stools, it's likely that there's an obstruction, and you should contact your vet immediately. "Why do dogs eat dirt? What causes pica in dogs?" Of course, if you're keen to keep up with what your pets do while you're not around, check out the Petcube Bites 2 Lite, an interactive pet camera that allows you to watch your pets online from anywhere in the world. Identifying pica in dogs is an easy part. Figuring out what's causing pica in dogs is another matter entirely and one that takes a lot of time and patience.ĭogs with pica may be experiencing a nutritional or a hormonal imbalance, which is causing them to crave non-food items. Other diseases such as diabetes and thyroid problems can also contribute to pica in dogs. ![]() Certain breeds of dogs like Labrador retrievers are also naturally more prone to developing pica than others. So, where does one begin? Your vet will most likely want to do a range of tests on blood, urine, and stool to rule out any of these medical issues which might be to blame. ![]() They'll look for parasites, issues with digestion, and the malabsorption of nutrients that could be the root of the problem. If your vet suspects a potential blockage, X-rays or ultrasound may be required and possibly surgery to follow depending on the results. If nothing becomes apparent after these tests, the problem is likely to be emotional or behavioral. This makes treating your dog's pica a bit trickier. Your dog can suffer from stress the same way you do but will react to it in ways that may be unexpected.Ī dog suffering from separation anxiety can use chewing as a way to self-soothe, and sometimes chewing leads to swallowing all or part of whatever they're gnawing on.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |